Thyroid Ultrasound

Alternative names:

thyroid echogram; thyroid sonogram; ultrasound of the thyroid

How the test is performed:

The test is usually done in the ultrasound or radiology department. You will be lying down with your neck hyperextended (extending the neck beyond its usual limit). The lubricant gel is placed on your neck, and the transducer is passed over the area. Pictures are taken of the images.

How to prepare for the test:

Adults:
No special preparation is necessary for this test.

Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:

• infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
• toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
• preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
• schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
• adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)

How the test will feel:

There is no discomfort with this test.

Why the test is performed:

The ultrasound of the thyroid is done to differentiate between a cyst (an abnormal sac containing a fluid, gas, or semisolid substance) and a tumor (abnormal tissue growth which may or may not be cancerous).