Ultrasound Examination of the Thyroid Gland

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What is a thyroid ultrasound?

Neck and thyroid ultrasound is a diagnostic procedure used to assess the condition of the thyroid gland and surrounding structures in the neck. Thyroid ultrasound is a non-invasive medical procedure used to visualize and evaluate the condition of the thyroid gland using ultrasound waves. The thyroid gland is a small gland located in the front of the neck, under the “Adam’s apple”, and plays a key role in the regulation of the body’s metabolism through the production of thyroid hormones (thyroxine – T4 and triiodothyronine – T3).

Thyroid ultrasound is a painless, quick and safe procedure. There is no exposure to ionizing radiation, which makes it safe and suitable for repeated examinations. The results of an ultrasound examination often help doctors make an accurate diagnosis and plan further treatment, if necessary.

Why is an ultrasound examination of the thyroid gland being performed?

  • Thyroid examination includes: medical history, physical examination of the thyroid gland, blood laboratory parameters and ultrasound of the thyroid gland.
  • In the event of the appearance of symptoms that may indicate problems with the thyroid gland: weight changes, fatigue and exhaustion, insomnia or sleep disorders, mood changes, fast or slow heart rate, increased blood pressure or palpitations, irregular or heavy periods, dry skin, brittle hair, hair loss, neck swelling
  • Due to disturbed values of laboratory parameters, imaging of the thyroid gland is performed: thyroid hormones, triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), thyrotropin hormone (TSH), antibodies to the thyroid gland
  • Thyroid ultrasound is performed if the thyroid gland is overactive when the following symptoms occur: increased appetite, weight loss, increased irritability, nervousness and restlessness, rapid heartbeat, sweating and sensitivity to heat, changes in the menstrual cycle in women, weak tolerance to physical exertion, restless sleep changes in the eyes, such as bulging eyes (exophthalmos) and dry eye.
  • Thyroid ultrasound and hormones: two important diagnostic procedures used to assess thyroid health and function. If TSH is increased and T4 and T3 are decreased, it may indicate hypothyroidism (decreased function). If TSH is decreased and T3 and T4 are elevated, it may indicate hyperthyroidism (increased function).
  • The presence of thyroid antibodies (anti TPO At, anti TG At): may indicate autoimmune diseases of the thyroid gland, such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or Graves’ disease
  • Detection of nodules and other changes: Ultrasound allows the identification and evaluation of nodules, cysts or other unusual formations in the thyroid gland. These changes can be benign or malignant, so ultrasound is used for their early detection and risk assessment.
  • Follow-up of thyroid disease: Patients with diagnosed thyroid disease, such as hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, or autoimmune diseases, undergo regular ultrasound examinations to monitor the progress of the disease, the effectiveness of therapy, and the eventual appearance of new problems.
  • Assessment of thyroid function: Ultrasound can reveal signs of inflammation (thyroiditis) or other structural changes that may affect thyroid function. This helps doctors better understand the condition of the gland and adjust therapy if necessary.
  • Follow-up of previously identified nodules: If previous examinations, such as palpation of the neck or other diagnostic methods, have revealed nodules in the thyroid gland, ultrasound can provide additional information about their size, shape and structure.
  • Thyroid cancer risk assessment: Ultrasound can help assess the likelihood that malignant changes are present in the thyroid gland, allowing doctors to make decisions about further diagnostic tests or a biopsy if needed.
  • Follow-up after surgery: Patients who have previously undergone surgery on the thyroid gland should be regularly monitored with ultrasound to assess the possible return of problems or complications after surgery.

Ultrasound examination of the thyroid gland is a painless, quick and safe procedure that enables a detailed examination of this important organ without exposing the patient to ionizing radiation. The results of this examination can be of crucial importance for the diagnosis, treatment and monitoring of the condition of the thyroid gland.

What does a thyroid ultrasound show?

 
Ultrasound of the thyroid gland enables a detailed visual examination of this organ, providing information on its size, shape, structure and the presence of possible changes. Here’s what a thyroid ultrasound can usually show:
 

Size and shape

Ultrasound allows measurement of thyroid dimensions, including length, width, and thickness. Also, the shape of the gland is evaluated, which should usually be symmetrical.

Nodules and changes

Ultrasound can reveal the presence of lumps (nodules) in the thyroid gland. Lumps can be single or multiple and can be of different sizes. These changes are further analyzed to determine whether they are benign or malignant.

Cysts

Ultrasound can identify cysts in the thyroid gland. Cysts are filled with fluid and are usually benign in nature.

Diffuse changes

Ultrasound can reveal diffuse changes in the thyroid gland, which may indicate inflammatory or autoimmune diseases, such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.

Blood vessels

Ultrasound can show the blood flow in the thyroid gland, which is important for assessing its vascular status.

Goiter

An ultrasound may show an increase in the volume of the thyroid gland, which is called a goiter. Goiter can be caused by a variety of conditions, including hyperfunction or hypofunction of the gland, as well as other disorders.

Parathyroid glands

Sometimes the parathyroid glands located near the thyroid gland can be identified and evaluated with ultrasound. The parathyroid glands are responsible for regulating the calcium balance in the body.
 

How to prepare for thyroid ultrasound?

Preparation for a thyroid ultrasound is usually not demanding and generally does not require special restrictions or changes in diet. Before the examination, inform your doctor about all the medicines you are currently taking. Some medications, especially hormonal preparations, can affect the results of the ultrasound, so it is important that the doctor is familiar with your current therapy. Before the examination, avoid applying creams, oils or lotions to the front of the neck, where the thyroid gland is located. These products may interfere with the quality of the ultrasound image. Wear comfortable and unbuttoned clothing to facilitate access to the front of the neck during the examination.
 
It is important to note that ultrasound of the thyroid gland is a painless and safe procedure that does not use ionizing radiation, which makes it safe and suitable for repeated examinations.

How is thyroid ultrasound performed?

Ultrasound of the thyroid gland is a painless and non-invasive procedure performed using an ultrasound device. Here’s how a thyroid ultrasound is usually performed:
 
  1. Patient preparation: The patient should be placed in a supine or sitting position with the neck slightly tilted back to facilitate access to the front of the neck.
  2. Ultrasound gel: Before the examination begins, the medical technician (sonographer) will apply gel to the front of the neck. The gel helps ensure good contact between the ultrasound probe and the skin, which improves image quality.
  3. Using the ultrasound probe: The sonographer will hold an ultrasound probe (which is similar to a small microphone) to the front of the neck. The probe emits high-frequency sound waves into the body and then registers the reflected waves that return. This information is converted into an image of the thyroid gland on the screen of the ultrasound machine.
  4. Probe movement: The sonographer will carefully move the probe across the front of the neck to examine the entire thyroid gland and surrounding structures. During the examination, the sonographer may ask the patient to change the position of the head or take a deep breath to better visualize certain regions.
  5. Imaging and measurement: During the examination, the sonographer may record images of the thyroid gland and measure the dimensions of nodules or other changes that are detected.
  6. Completion of the examination: When the examination is complete, the sonographer will wipe the gel from the patient’s neck.
 
Ultrasound of the thyroid gland is completely painless. The results of the examination are immediately displayed on the screen and can be used for diagnostics or additional evaluations. If necessary, images are saved for later comparison during thyroid monitoring.

What does ultrasound equipment look like?

Ultrasound equipment is used to perform ultrasound examinations and consists of several key components. Here are the basic elements of ultrasound equipment and what they look like:

Ultrasound machine

The basic part of the ultrasound equipment is the ultrasound machine itself, which is the central device for generating, receiving and processing ultrasound waves. It is usually a large console unit that sits on a cart or table. The device is equipped with a screen that displays ultrasound images in real time.

Ultrasound probe

An ultrasound probe is a device that emits ultrasound waves into the patient’s body and receives the waves that are reflected back. The probe looks like a small microphone and is connected to the ultrasound machine via a cable. There are different types of probes, each with specific characteristics for visualizing different tissues and organs.

Monitor

Ultrasound images obtained during the examination are displayed on the monitor screen. A doctor or sonographer can watch the monitor carefully to assess the condition of the organs or tissues being examined.

Control keyboard

The ultrasound machine has a control keyboard or panel through which the functions of the machine are managed, such as setting the parameters of the ultrasound waves, recording depth, image zooming, etc.

Printer (optional)

Some ultrasound machines have a built-in printer that allows you to print ultrasound images for documentation or for the patient.

Ultrasound gel

Gel is used to better guide ultrasound waves from the probe to the patient’s skin and improve image quality. The gel is safe for the skin and is easy to remove after the examination.
 
Ultrasound equipment is constantly being improved, so modern devices often have additional functions and technological innovations to improve the accuracy and quality of diagnostics. Precisely because of its painlessness, speed and safety, ultrasound is often the first option of diagnostic examination.

What can I expect during and after the thyroid gland ultrasound examination?

During a thyroid ultrasound examination, you can expect the following:
  1. Preparing for the examination: Before the actual examination, you may be asked to change into a hospital gown or to remove necklaces and other jewellery that may obstruct access to the front of the neck.
  2. Examination position: You will be placed in a lying or sitting position with your neck slightly tilted back so that the sonographer can access the front of your neck.
  3. Applying the gel: The sonographer will apply the gel to the front of the neck. This gel helps ensure good contact between the ultrasound probe and the skin, which improves image quality.
  4. Ultrasound examination: The sonographer will carefully hold the ultrasound probe at the front of the neck and move it to examine the entire thyroid gland and surrounding structures. This procedure is painless and usually does not cause discomfort.
  5. 5. Analysis of the results: The results of the ultrasound of the thyroid gland are immediately displayed on the screen. The sonographer will analyze the images and measure any changes detected during the examination.
 
After the review, you can expect:
 
  1. Gel removal: After the examination is complete, the sonographer will wipe the remaining gel from the front of the neck.
  2. Return to normal activities: Thyroid ultrasound does not require recovery and you can immediately return to your normal activities.
  3. Interpretation of the results: The results of the examination will be available to the doctor who will analyze and interpret them. Your doctor will explain the findings and, if necessary, take additional steps regarding further diagnosis or treatment.

How long does a thyroid ultrasound exam take?

A thyroid US examination is usually relatively short, lasting between 10 and 30 minutes, depending on the reason for the examination and the complexity of the case. In most cases, the examination can be performed in 15-20 minutes. It is important to note that the duration of the examination may vary depending on the additional examinations that need to be performed, such as biopsy samples (if suspicious changes are detected), extended nodule examination or a more extensive evaluation of the parathyroid glands.
 
In any case, ultrasound of the thyroid gland is a simple, fast and safe procedure that provides valuable information about the condition of this important organ.

Who interprets thyroid ultrasound results and how do I get them?

Thyroid ultrasound results are usually interpreted by a radiologist, who specializes in the interpretation of medical images obtained by various diagnostic methods, including ultrasound. The radiologist analyzes the images taken during the ultrasound examination and writes a report with the findings. The report will include the dimensions of the thyroid gland, any changes, the presence of nodules, cysts or other unusual formations, as well as a description of any pathological findings.
 
When having a thyroid ultrasound, you will usually be given an appointment by your doctor. After the examination is completed, the doctor will usually give you recommendations for further procedures based on the interpretation of the results. You may be told right away that everything is fine and there are no significant findings, or perhaps certain changes have been identified that will require further monitoring or additional diagnostic procedures, such as a biopsy.
 
Also, your doctor will give you a copy of the report of the findings and, if necessary, discuss with you their meaning and possible next steps regarding your medical condition.

What are the risks of thyroid ultrasound examination?

A thyroid ultrasound examination is usually safe and carries no significant risks. Before the examination begins, gel is applied to the front of the neck to improve contact between the probe and the skin. Rarely, some patients may have an allergic reaction to the gel. However, gels used in medicine are usually hypoallergenic and safe for most people.
 
It is important to note that ultrasound of the thyroid gland is a routine procedure that is often used in the diagnosis and monitoring of the condition of the thyroid gland. Ultrasound results can provide important information to doctors about the condition of the thyroid gland and any changes that may occur.

What are the benefits of thyroid ultrasound examination?

Ultrasound examination of the thyroid gland has a number of advantages that make it a useful diagnostic tool. Here are some key benefits of this review:
 
  • Safety: Ultrasound is a safe examination because it does not use ionizing radiation, unlike some other diagnostic methods such as X-rays and CT scans. This means that there is no risk of exposing the patient to harmful radiation.
  • Painlessness: Ultrasound is a non-invasive and usually painless procedure. No need to prick the skin or use a needle for this test. The probe is simply held on the surface of the skin to examine the inside of the neck.
  • Speed: An ultrasound examination of the thyroid gland is a quick procedure that usually takes only a few minutes. The results are available immediately and can be used for rapid diagnosis and planning of further treatment steps, if necessary.
  • Accuracy: Ultrasound of the thyroid gland provides detailed images of the inside of the gland, which allows for a precise analysis of its dimensions, shape, structure and possible changes.
  • Monitoring over time: Ultrasound can be useful for monitoring the condition of the thyroid gland over time. If changes are detected, the ultrasound can be repeated to monitor their behavior and possibly respond to them.
  • Aid in diagnosis: Ultrasound can help in the diagnosis of various thyroid conditions, including the presence of nodules, cysts, inflammatory or autoimmune changes.
  • Safe for pregnant women: Ultrasound is safe to use during pregnancy, making it useful for monitoring thyroid conditions in pregnant women.
 
Overall, ultrasound of the thyroid gland is a reliable, safe and quick diagnostic procedure that provides important information about the state of the thyroid gland. Based on the results of the ultrasound, the doctor can make an accurate diagnosis and plan the appropriate treatment, if necessary.

What are the limitations of thyroid ultrasound?

Despite many advantages, ultrasound of the thyroid gland has some limitations in its diagnostic possibilities. Here are some of the main limitations of thyroid ultrasound:

It cannot differentiate between benign and malignant diseases:

Although ultrasound can detect the presence of nodules (lumps) in the thyroid gland, the examination alone cannot reliably distinguish between benign (harmless) and malignant (cancerous) lesions. Additional diagnostic procedures, such as fine needle biopsy, are usually necessary to clarify the nature and risk of the nodule.

Nodules that are not big enough:

Nodules that are very small can be difficult to detect with ultrasound, especially if they are located deeper in the thyroid tissue. In such cases, additional diagnostic methods, such as scintigraphy or fine needle biopsy, may be useful.
No information about functionality: Ultrasound provides information about the anatomy of the thyroid gland, but does not provide information about its functionality. To evaluate the functionality of the thyroid gland, laboratory tests are used that measure the levels of thyroid hormones in the blood.

View limited to the surface

The ultrasound probe has a limited range of view, which means that it cannot explore every deep or hard-to-reach area in the thyroid gland. Sometimes the detection of less visible structures can be difficult.

Does not detect every type of thyroid disease

Although ultrasound can detect many changes in the thyroid gland, there are some conditions, such as subclinical thyroid dysfunction, that may not be detected by this examination.
 
Despite these limitations, ultrasound of the thyroid gland is still an extremely useful diagnostic method that provides important information about the state of this organ. The combination of ultrasound with other diagnostic methods can be of crucial importance for establishing an accurate diagnosis and planning adequate treatment.
 
A complete thyroid examination includes various diagnostic methods and analyzes that are used to evaluate the function, structure and possible changes in the thyroid gland. Checking the thyroid gland includes history, physical examination, analysis of thyroid hormone and antibody levels, and ultrasound of the neck and thyroid gland.

The doctor may indicate further diagnostic methods such as:

  1. Scintigraphy: Thyroid scintigraphy is a nuclear medicine procedure that uses radioactive substances (usually iodine) to show the functionality of the thyroid gland. This method can help identify hot or cold nodes, which indicate certain functional disorders.
  2. Fine needle biopsy (fine needle biopsies): If thyroid nodules are found, the doctor may decide to perform a fine needle biopsy. This procedure involves taking a tissue sample from the nodule for further analysis under a microscope to determine whether the change is benign or malignant.
  3. Thyroid calcium scan: This procedure can be useful for evaluating the presence of calcifications in the thyroid gland, which may be associated with certain diseases.
  4. Other diagnostic methods: In some cases, the doctor may order additional tests and analyses, such as a CT scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or other nuclear medicine procedures, in order to better evaluate the thyroid gland and any changes.
 
The combination of all these diagnostic methods helps doctors to make an accurate diagnosis and undertake appropriate treatment, if necessary. It is important to note that the extent of the examination will depend on the patient’s symptoms, medical history and findings of other previous tests. If you suspect thyroid problems, you should contact your doctor to begin an evaluation and determine the most appropriate screening plan.

 

Ultrasound of the thyroid gland – Price

Price of this exam is 5000 RSD.