Schilddrüsenuntersuchungen

Schilddrüsenuntersuchungen are medical examinations used to assess the health and function of the thyroid gland. The thyroid, a small butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck, produces hormones that regulate metabolism, energy levels, and many other vital bodily functions.

These investigations can involve several methods. A primary step is often a physical examination, where a doctor palpates the neck to feel for any enlargement, nodules, or tenderness of the thyroid gland. This is usually followed by blood tests to measure levels of thyroid hormones, such as T3 (triiodothyronine), T4 (thyroxine), and TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone). Abnormal levels can indicate conditions like hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) or hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).

Imaging techniques are also commonly employed. Ultrasound of the thyroid is a non-invasive procedure that uses sound waves to create images of the gland, allowing doctors to visualize its size, shape, and detect the presence of nodules or cysts. In some cases, a thyroid scintigraphy may be performed, which involves administering a small amount of radioactive iodine or technetium and then using a special camera to assess how the thyroid gland absorbs it. This can help determine if nodules are "hot" (producing excess hormone) or "cold" (not producing hormone).

A fine-needle aspiration biopsy may be recommended if suspicious nodules are found during imaging. This procedure involves inserting a thin needle into a nodule to collect a small sample of cells for microscopic examination, helping to rule out or confirm the presence of cancer. Schilddrüsenuntersuchungen are crucial for diagnosing and monitoring a wide range of thyroid disorders.