MRI of the Thyroid or Parathyroid is sometimes indicated to evaluate the size and shape of your thyroid. It is often used as a complement to an ultrasound scan.
Indications for an MRI of the neck can be unsuccessful complete visualisation of the thyroid. Some conditions can cause significant enlargement of the thyroid gland where it extends deep into the chest cavity below the sternum, making an ultrasound scan limited.
An MRI of the neck can also be beneficial when looking for potential spread of malignancy originating from the thyroid, as the cross-sectional view from multiple angles allows for a detailed study.
Contrast (dye)
Some symptoms and illnesses can be hard to detect even on a MRI scan and require injection of dye (contrast) before or during the scan.
It is particularly helpful in the following conditions:
- Tumours
- Inflammation
- Blood vessels
- Distinguishing between scar tissue and normal organ tissue
The injection is considered very safe for most and you will complete a safety questionnaire detailing your medical history before. The contrast agent (dye) is Gadolinium based and most of it is removed by your kidneys within the next day.
Read more about Gadolinium contrast dye