Radioactive iodine (I-131) is an isotope of
iodine that emits radiation. The thyroid is a gland in the front of a human neck that controls
the metabolism. The thyroid produces hormones which regulate the chemical process of converting
food into energy.
I-131 is typically used in thyroid tests, including the
thyroid scan. When a human swallows small doses of I-131, the isotope is absorbed into the
bloodstream in the gastrointestinal tract and then concentrated from the blood by thyroid gland.
Since the isotope releases radiation, doctors can monitor how the thyroid concentrates and
processes the isotope through a process known as a radioactive iodine uptake (RAIU). Prior to
consuming the iodine, one will intake a tracer which releases gamma rays in the body that allow
a camera and computer to process and visualize the activity in the thyroid.
When the thyroid absorbs the I-131, it processes the isotope to make hormones. Through
measuring the amount of radioactive iodine that remains in the thyroid, a doctor can understand
the way the thyroid is working and associated abnormalities.
If abnormalities
or inconsistencies are discovered during a routine procedure, a doctor may recommend a thyroid
scan. These tests have been used to test and diagnose lumps, cysts, inflammation, overactive
thyroid (hyperthyroidism), underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), and thyroid
cancer.
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