There are several imaging tests that may be performed to
learn the size and location of a nodule, including:
Radioactive iodine scan (thyroid scan) – the use of radioactive
iodine and a special machine to outline the abnormal areas of the thyroid.
Ultrasonography (ultrasound) – the use of high-frequency sound waves
to create images of the thyroid.
Computed tomography (CT or CAT scan) – an x-ray procedure with a
machine that rotates around your body taking multiple pictures.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI or MRI scan) – use of strong magnets,
radio waves, and a computer instead of x-rays to take images of the thyroid.
Octreotide scan – done
with a radioactively tagged hormone to evaluate the metastasis of medullary
cases.
To determine if a nodule is benign or malignant, the cells must be observed
beneath a microscope. A sample will be taken either by withdrawing tissue with
a needle (needle biopsy) or removing the whole tumor (surgical biopsy.)
Once the diagnosis is complete, the doctors move on to the staging
process.