Thyroid ultrasound

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Thyroid ultrasound

A thyroid ultrasound is a non-invasive test that uses sound waves to produce images of the thyroid gland and its surrounding structures. This diagnostic method helps identify thyroid diseases, such as nodules, cysts, hyperplasia, or thyroid cancer.

Duration

15 - 20 minutes

Recommended number

One test, unless there is a need to monitor the growth of nodes or cysts

Who it is for

People with thyroid problems, elevated thyroid hormones, or a family history of thyroid disease

Contraindications

None

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Duško Banić, MD. spec. radiologist

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A thyroid ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the thyroid gland on a screen. This test provides a detailed view of the structure of the thyroid gland, nodules, lesions, or other abnormalities that may indicate the presence of disease. It is often used to detect thyroid nodules, because nodules are common, especially in women, and most are not malignant. However, some nodules can be a sign of thyroid cancer, so their careful monitoring is important for timely diagnosis.

During the exam, a specialist will apply a gel to the area of the neck where the thyroid gland is located, and use a special probe to emit sound waves that bounce off the tissue and return to the device. The sound waves are converted into images that are displayed on a screen. Depending on the type of tissue, the images can show differences in density and structure, which allows doctors to identify abnormalities in the thyroid gland.

The most common condition detected by a thyroid ultrasound are nodules. Although most thyroid nodules are not cancerous, it is important to have further tests, such as a needle biopsy, to determine their nature. Nodules may be filled with fluid (cysts), or they may be solid. Sometimes, in addition to nodules, an ultrasound can also reveal signs of thyroid inflammation, such as thyroiditis, or an increase in the size of the gland, which may indicate a thyroid disorder.

Ultrasound also allows for the monitoring of patients who have already been diagnosed with thyroid diseases, such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis or Graves' disease, and provides valuable information about changes in the size of the thyroid or the condition of existing nodules. It is also often used as a routine diagnostic method in patients with a family history of thyroid disease or in those who have symptoms related to a thyroid disorder, such as fatigue, weight changes, skin and hair problems, or metabolic abnormalities.

One of the advantages of thyroid ultrasound is its safety, as it does not use ionizing radiation like X-rays or CT scans, making it safe for frequent use, including in pregnant women. Ultrasound is also a quick and simple test that does not require special preparation and is usually performed in 10 to 20 minutes.