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May 23, 2013
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Thyroid Nodules (cont.)

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Iodine

131-IODINE (I-131) concentrates in the thyroid tissue and cause tissue destruction. I-131 can be administered as a capsule or in liquid form.

  • I-131 can be used to treat multinodular goiters with nodules that are producing extra thyroid hormone. Such cases are indicated by a low TSH level and elevated thyroid hormone level in the blood or a "hot" nodule on radionuclide (I-123) thyroid scan.
  • After I-131 destroys the thyroid, the patient develops an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) and requires thyroid hormone replacement for life to maintain a normal level of thyroid hormones in the blood. Thyroid hormone replacement consists simply of taking a pill once daily by mouth. Thyroid hormone replacement is safe, easily tolerated, and relatively inexpensive.

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Thyroid Nodule »

Nodular disease of the thyroid gland is prevalent in the United States.

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