Radioactive iodine uptake test

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Radioactive Iodine Uptake Test

The Radioactive Iodine Uptake Test (pronounced: ray-dee-oh-ak-tiv eye-o-dine up-take test), often abbreviated as RIU, is a type of nuclear medicine examination that measures the functionality of the thyroid gland. The test is performed by administering a small amount of radioactive iodine and later measuring how much of it has been absorbed by the thyroid gland.

Etymology

The term "Radioactive Iodine Uptake Test" is derived from the process it involves. "Radioactive" refers to the radioactive iodine used in the test, "Iodine" is a chemical element necessary for the production of thyroid hormones, "Uptake" refers to the absorption of the radioactive iodine by the thyroid gland, and "Test" signifies the diagnostic nature of the procedure.

Procedure

The Radioactive Iodine Uptake Test is performed in two stages. In the first stage, the patient is given a small amount of radioactive iodine, either orally or through an injection. The iodine is then allowed to circulate in the bloodstream and is absorbed by the thyroid gland. After a certain period of time (usually 4-6 hours and again at 24 hours), the amount of iodine absorbed by the thyroid gland is measured using a device called a gamma camera or a Geiger counter.

Interpretation

The results of the Radioactive Iodine Uptake Test can help diagnose various thyroid disorders. A high iodine uptake indicates conditions such as Graves' disease or toxic nodular goiter, where the thyroid gland is overactive. A low iodine uptake suggests conditions like thyroiditis or hypothyroidism, where the thyroid gland is underactive.

Related Terms

  • Hyperthyroidism: A condition in which the thyroid gland is overactive and produces too much thyroid hormone.
  • Hypothyroidism: A condition in which the thyroid gland is underactive and does not produce enough thyroid hormone.
  • Thyroiditis: Inflammation of the thyroid gland.
  • Graves' disease: An autoimmune disorder that leads to overactivity of the thyroid gland.
  • Toxic nodular goiter: A condition characterized by an enlarged thyroid gland and overproduction of thyroid hormones.

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