The Changing Iodide-Uptake Test

Abstract

The uptake of radioiodine by the thyroid gland is a sensitive indicator of thyroid function. Introduced more than two decades ago as a diagnostic aid, this technic has evolved as an objective, safe and convenient means of assessing gland activity. Numerous modifications of the test procedure have lowered the radiation dose delivered to the patient and enhanced the convenience and accuracy of the assay. Among the current technics perhaps the most frequently employed uses 2 to 10 μCi of ¹³¹I and a reading at 24 hours after administration. Other methods using shorter times and short-lived isotopes in low dosage offer . . .