A thyroid ultrasound (thyroid echoscopy) is a non-invasive way to assess the structure of the thyroid gland and detect changes in it.
You can book an endocrinologist consultation during which the ultrasound examination is performed.
If needed, Baltic American Clinic performs ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration biopsy of the thyroid and cytological examination.
The laboratory tests needed to assess thyroid function are carried out at the clinic.
Thyroid ultrasound, endocrinologist consultation, laboratory diagnostics and, if needed, biopsy can all be done at one clinic.
When is a thyroid ultrasound recommended?
A thyroid ultrasound may be recommended when:
- a lump or other formation can be felt in the neck;
- the thyroid gland appears enlarged;
- you feel pressure or discomfort in the neck;
- the doctor finds thyroid changes during an examination;
- blood tests show thyroid function disorders;
- thyroid nodules or other changes found earlier need monitoring;
- the doctor recommends an ultrasound assessment of the thyroid.
A thyroid ultrasound shows the structure of the gland, but blood tests may be needed to assess how it works. The doctor decides which tests are needed in each case.
What can a thyroid ultrasound show?
Ultrasound can assess the size and structure of the thyroid gland and any changes in it.
The examination can detect and evaluate thyroid nodules, cysts and other structural changes.
If a thyroid nodule is found, its presence alone does not mean that a biopsy or treatment is needed. The doctor reviews the ultrasound findings and, depending on your individual situation, decides whether further tests are required.
Thyroid ultrasound and endocrinologist consultation
The Baltic American Clinic price list includes a separate endocrinologist consultation during which the ultrasound examination is performed.
In one visit you can have the thyroid ultrasound and discuss the results with an endocrinologist, who can decide on further tests or treatment based on your overall clinical situation.
When may a thyroid biopsy be needed?
If the thyroid ultrasound shows a change, the doctor decides, based on its features and your individual clinical situation, whether further tests are needed.
If needed, Baltic American Clinic performs fine-needle aspiration biopsy of the thyroid. The procedure is done under ultrasound guidance: a tissue sample is taken and examined cytologically.
How is a thyroid ultrasound performed?
A special gel is applied to the skin of the neck, and the doctor examines the thyroid with an ultrasound probe and assesses its structure.
Ultrasound uses no ionising radiation and does not damage the skin.
How to prepare for a thyroid ultrasound
Usually no special preparation is needed.
If you have had a thyroid ultrasound, biopsy, hormone or other thyroid-related tests before, bring the earlier results. They can help the doctor assess how any changes have developed.
Frequently asked questions
Does a thyroid ultrasound show whether the thyroid works normally?
Ultrasound assesses the structure of the thyroid, while its function is assessed with laboratory tests. Depending on your situation, the doctor may also recommend thyroid hormone or other blood tests.
Does a thyroid nodule mean cancer?
No. Finding a thyroid nodule does not in itself mean a malignant disease. The doctor assesses the features of the nodule and decides whether further tests are needed.
Does every thyroid nodule need a biopsy?
No. The doctor decides whether a biopsy is needed after reviewing the ultrasound findings and other clinical information.
Does Baltic American Clinic perform thyroid biopsies?
Yes. If needed, ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration biopsy of the thyroid and cytological examination are performed.
Do I need to prepare for a thyroid ultrasound?
Usually no special preparation is needed. If you have results of earlier thyroid tests, bring them with you.
Can a thyroid ultrasound be done during pregnancy?
Ultrasound uses no ionising radiation. If a thyroid examination is needed during pregnancy, the doctor decides which tests are required.
Thyroid ultrasound price
The price of a thyroid ultrasound is set by the Baltic American Clinic price list in force at the time.
If you book an endocrinologist consultation with an ultrasound examination, or if an aspiration biopsy, cytological or other additional tests are needed after the ultrasound, the final price depends on the services actually provided and is calculated according to the Baltic American Clinic price list in force.