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Patient Preparation
Patients must be off iodine-containing
drugs, including radiographic contrast! The minimum time interval
between prior iodine administration and scanning varies from one
week (e.g. iodine solution) to 4 weeks (Synthroid) to 2-10 years
(oil-based Myelogram). If the patient has had an IVP or a CT with
IV contrast, a thyroid scan should not be attempted for 4-6 weeks.
Many other medications interfere with scanning (PCN, antihistamines,
Amiodarone, etc.). Make sure that all medications that the patient
is taking are listed on the requisition.
Patient must not have any food or drink for 4 hours prior and
one hour after their therapy drink.
Exam Procedure
Patient will usually have a thyroid uptake and scan study prior
to therapy to determine size, shape and function of their thyroid
gland. The strength of the treatment drink is based on these factors.
The patient will be required to drink a small amount of radioactive
iodine. The drink is tasteless and has no side effects. Following
iodine therapies, patients are given specific instructions with
respect to precautions which include, but are not limited to decreasing
close contact with children under 3 years of age, not sharing utensils,
and flushing the toilet twice after urination. Generally, proximity
limitations would be similar to those of a person with a cold or
flu. Women who are breastfeeding must discontinue breastfeeding
completely following a radioiodine treatment. Women who are planning
a pregnancy should consult with their physician. Pregnancy
should be postponed by approximately 1 year after treatment.
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