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Scintigraphy is a method for detecting thyroid diseases, which is carried out using radioactive isotopes. With the help of this procedure, it is possible to make an assessment of the functional abilities and work of the gland. In addition, it is possible to identify foci of the disease and changes in the vascular patterns of the organ. It should be noted that this type of diagnostics appeared quite a long time ago and has established itself in both experimental and practical medicine. The study uses the radioisotope of iodine 123 and 131, as well as technetium 99. Scintigraphy is harmless to the human body, but has certain contraindications that limit its use in some cases.
Conducting research
During the study, special radioactive components are introduced into the human body, combined with special drugs. Further, these connected components with the natural blood flow are sent to the organ under study. After that, the received information is processed by a computer. Thus, the doctor can obtain all the necessary data. It becomes clear that in order to carry out a scintigraphic examination, it is necessary to have high-quality and quite wide equipment. It is equally important that the specialists performing the survey are professionals in their field.
The amount of the isotope that is introduced into the human body is absolutely harmless, since this component is very quickly destroyed and excreted. If we compare this procedure with an X-ray examination, then the ratio is much less. Allergic reactions also in most cases do not occur.
Preparation for a thyroid scintigraphy takes very little time – about 30 minutes. This time is enough for the radiological preparation to be able to accumulate in the organ in the right amount. The examination itself lasts approximately 20 minutes.
The sequence of the procedure may be different: in the morning the patient takes a radioisotope and returns to his usual way of life. The next day, exactly 24 hours later, the person returns to the medical facility and is scanned.
In addition, there are some medical requirements for which you should stop taking medications. Approximately 1 month before the scintigraphy, the use of medicines containing iodine should be stopped. Any blockers are undesirable for patients with cardiovascular diseases. The food consumed has absolutely no effect on the quality and result of the study. But medications can accumulate in thyroid tissue and contribute to implausible results.
In general, the research methodology is quite simple and this preparation practically does not affect the normal daily routine of a person. In addition to giving up medications for 1 month, some more recommendations should be followed. It is not recommended to conduct other studies in which a contrast agent is used within 3 months. This includes X-ray, angiographic, magnetic resonance imaging.
The endocrinologist who gave the patient a referral for scintography should explain in detail all the nuances. Further treatment and possible replacement of already used drugs should also be discussed with him.
Indications for scintigraphy
Despite the fact that this procedure is absolutely harmless, it may not be prescribed for all patients with thyroid disease. For the appointment of thyroid scintigraphy, the following indicators are taken into account:
- congenital anomalies in the development of the organ;
- the presence of nodes;
- differential diagnosis of thyrotoxicosis;
- neoplasms on the thyroid gland;
- malposition of the thyroid gland.
Thyroid pathologies
There are several fairly common pathologies of the thyroid gland. In hypothyroidism, the gland secretes a small amount of thyroxine, the main thyroid hormone. This leads to a slowdown in metabolism and a decrease in thyroid function. Symptoms of this disease are marked weight gain, loss of appetite, constant feeling of coldness, depression and fatigue. Also, a person’s heartbeat slows down and constipation occurs.
In hyperthyroidism, the opposite occurs. The thyroid gland secretes excessive amounts of thyroxine, so the metabolism is accelerated. Symptoms of the disease are weight loss, heart palpitations, and frequent diarrhea.
Thyroid cancer is a malignant tumor that originates from the cells of the thyroid gland. With the help of nuclear tomography, violations of the function of this organ can be detected.
Research result
Most often, this study is assigned to determine the nodes and correctly assess their activity. Scintigraphy can identify “cold” and “hot” zones. “Cold” nodes do not have the ability to accumulate radioisotopes, so this indicates a nodular goiter or a neoplasm. “Hot” nodes, in contrast, accumulate radioisotopes, thereby producing hormones without the control of thyroid-stimulating hormone. In addition, scintigraphy allows you to evaluate other absorption parameters that indicate other thyroid diseases.
Contraindications and side effects
Scintigraphy is a very simple procedure with no consequences. If there are certain indications, then this study with the help of technetium 99 can be carried out even for babies.
This procedure is contraindicated for pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy. Women during lactation can be examined, but you can continue feeding the baby only 24 hours after the end of the scintigraphy.
This method of examination from the radiation point is safe. Side effects after the procedure in 99% are associated with the individual characteristics of the body or the occurrence of allergic reactions. A number of side effects include: an allergic reaction to the radioactive component, changes in blood pressure, frequent urination. Very rarely, nausea and vomiting occur. In any case, these symptoms pass quickly.
After completion of a thyroid iodine scintigraphy, the patient may experience temporary symptoms such as facial flushing and fever, but this is rare. If, during or after the examination, the patient feels severe dizziness, weakness and itching in the neck, it is urgent to tell your doctor or one of the medical workers about this.
In general, the radiation that a patient can receive during the examination is so harmless and small that a thyroid scintigraphy can be performed several times. If you need a total study of the endocrine gland, then it is allowed to conduct up to 2 times a month.
In addition, it is imperative to comply with safety requirements and take into account the potential hazard of materials of radioactive origin.