Radioactive Iodine Test

[mis8231]

I recently had a thyroid ultrasound because of hyperparathyroidism, I guess they were trying to see those glands.  The radiologist's report indicated that my right thyroid gland was significantly enlarged and it has a solid mass with "increased vascularity".  She recommended a Thyroid Nuclear Scan to rule out cold nodule. I had the test done on Tues and Wed of this week and the doctor called yesterday (Thurs) and said he had results, but I need to go to his office as soon as possible to discuss the "abnormal" findings.  I haven't gone yet, I will be going in about an hour.  I also have an appointment for next week with MD Anderson to do a biopsy, but I think it's just on my parathyroid. I will also be seeing a surgeon. The problem is that when I was referred to MD Anderson the thyroid issues had not yet been discovered.

My question is:  Does the fact that I had a radioactive iodine test increase my risk of thyroid cancer?  I have heard from several people that it's better not to have one done because it can be harmful.  Is that correct?  I didn't know that or I woulnd't have had the test done.

[Mark Lupo, M.D.]

No - the test does not change the risk --- the scan was not likely needed, an FNA would be the next step provided that the TSH is normal.  If I recall, you clearly have a hyperparathyroid problem -- some data suggests that this may increase the risk of thyroid cancer, but this is debatable.  MD Anderson docs will sort all this out for you.

[mis8231]

I got the results back from my test and it says:

Findings:
The thyroid gland is normal in size measuring approx 4.5 in maximum length for each lobe. In the upper pole of the right lobe there is an area of slightly decreased activity which could be related to thinning of the gland in this region versus the possibility of a small, space-occupying lesion with decreased uptake. There are no other significant findings noted on the study.

Impression:
Normal thyroid size.  Small focal area of decreased uptake in the upper pole of the right lobe indicative of thinning of the right lobe in this region versus the possibility of a nodule with decreased function.  Correlation with clinical and sonographic evaluation of the thyroid to exclude the possibility of a focal nodule in the upper pole of the right lobe.

Does this mean I have nothing to worry about?  I am having a biopsy done next week, scheduled by the endocrine surgeon. I'm not really sure what these words mean. Can you explain what they are trying to say?  Thanks so much.