The thyroid pathology represented by these images is?

Prepare for the Nuclear Medicine Exit Exam. Use flashcards and multiple-choice questions with detailed explanations for each query. Get exam ready!

The depiction of thyroid pathology in this case is indicative of Graves' disease, a common form of hyperthyroidism caused by an autoimmune process. In Graves' disease, there is an overproduction of thyroid hormones due to the stimulation of the thyroid gland by antibodies that activate the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) receptor.

Key characteristics that support this diagnosis include:

  1. Increased Radioactive Uptake: In imaging studies (often done using I-123 or I-131), Graves' disease typically presents with diffuse increased uptake in the thyroid gland. This would be observed as a "hot" thyroid on a scan.

  2. Goiter Formation: The thyroid becomes enlarged or goitered due to the hyperactivity and overproduction of thyroid hormones, which is a hallmark sign of Graves' disease. Patients can exhibit a visibly enlarged thyroid gland.

  3. Associated Clinical Symptoms: Patients with Graves' disease often present with symptoms consistent with hyperthyroidism, such as weight loss, heat intolerance, increased sweating, palpitations, and sometimes ocular symptoms (such as exophthalmos).

Identifying these features through imaging and correlating them with clinical presentations firmly leads to the conclusion of Graves' disease as the underlying pathology

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy