Thyroid Uptake Measurement
What is a Thyroid Uptake Measurement?
This test is carried out in order to measure the amount of iodine your thyroid takes up from your food.
What is involved?
You will need to visit the department on two occasions. On your first visit to the department you will be asked to swallow a small amount of radioactive Iodine-131, usually as a liquid or occasionally as a small capsule. Please let us know if you have problems swallowing.
On the second visit a radiation detector will be positioned a short distance from your thyroid to measure the amount of Iodine your thyroid has taken up in the 24 hours since you swallowed the iodine.
How long will it take?
The first visit will not take longer than half an hour. The second visit will take less than 20 minutes.
Do I need to do anything before and after the test?
Please contact the department to discuss any medicines you are taking, which could interfere with the test.
Before and after the test you must fast for
two hours.
Two hours after the test you can eat and drink normally.
Is the radiation dangerous?
The amount of radiation you receive is small. It is comparable to that of an X-ray examination. The substances we use are non-toxic and will not make you feel sick or drowsy.
What about pregnancy?
The amount of radioactivity we use for this test is so low that there is no risk to any unborn child.
What about breastfeeding?
Radioactive substances can come out in breast milk. Please phone the Nuclear Medicine Department before your test if you are breastfeeding, so that we can advise you if you need to stop feeding for a length of time.
Can I bring a friend or relative with me?
A friend or relative can attend with you but they will not be able to accompany you when you have the drink or capsule or when we take measurements.
Can I still look after children and pets?
You do not have to take any special precautions when dealing with small children or pets after this procedure. The radiation from your body is so small that it will not affect anybody near you.
Can I return to work after my test?
Yes, there is usually no problem.
What about my result?
As the results from the measurement will be analysed at a later time we are unable to tell you the results of the test. The results will be sent to the doctor who requested the test.
If you have any further questions after reading this information
please contact:
The Nuclear Medicine Department (01202) 442499
References
This information has been produced by:
Head of Nuclear Medicine: Mr Lars Jansson
Date Produced: February 2007
Review Date: February 2008
Responsible Clinician: Dr NK Robson, Consultant Radiologist
