The thyroid is a gland located in the neck that regulates metabolism. Ultrasound is a painless method of examining structures inside the body. This test involves high-frequency sound waves that are emitted and received by a transducer (a handheld instrument). These sound waves penetrate the body and are arranged into an image seen on a screen based on the way they bounce off of the various body structures.
The test is usually done in the ultrasound or radiology department. You will lie with your neck hyperextended (extended beyond its usual limit). Lubricant gel will be placed on your neck, and the transducer passed over the area.
How to prepare for the test:
No special preparation is necessary for this test.
How the test will feel:
You should feel very little discomfort with this test. The conducting gel may be cold and your neck may feel stretched.
Why the test is performed:
Ultrasound is usually performed on the thyroid to differentiate between a cyst (a sac containing fluid) and a tumor (an abnormal tissue growth that may or may not be cancerous).
Review Date: 11/3/2004
Reviewed By: Jeffrey J. Brown, MD FACR, Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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