I 123 thyroid update scan

[huncher]

Confused as to how this process goes. I stopped my meds on Christmas day and still feel fine, no hype effects except the shortness of breath (if that is what is causing it---may also be my lazy vocal chord)
I have blood work scheduled on Jan. 6 and thyroid uptake scan scheduled for Jan. 8.  
What happens next? Do I hear from the endo on results?
-Am I correct in assuming that the cancer cells will how up on that scan?
-Do they just scan the thyroid area?
-What if nothing shows up?
-How long usually is the wait before the I 131 RAI?
PS- love the doctor, but nurse isn't quite as informative.

Have a good day and give yourself a hug from me.
Lorraine

[utahmomma]

Hey my friend!  Okay, I asked some of the same questions from my endo and the nuc med department at my hospital (in hopes that next time my scan is I-123 *not* I-131).

The I-123 is usually out of the body within 48 hours so after the scan (and they scan the entire body) they can give you the treatment dose of I-131 within just a few days.

If the cancer cells absorb iodine, they will absorb the I-123 (and I-131).  If nothing shows up (and usually after the RAI anyway) you should have a PET scan.  However, with your history a PET scan would still be recommended (talk to your doctor).

The shortness of breath could be from your increasing TSH - sometimes when the TSH climbs it brings depression and anxiety attacks and the shortness of breath could be anxiety.

Keep us posted!   And, on a personal note, since I'm not on the forum a lot lately, send me a PM and let me know how things are!

Huge hugs

Utah

[Jennifer1987]

Have no idea on the subject but GOOD LUCK! hope it all turns out fine:
Jen XxX