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Single photon emission computed tomography of the thyroid.
J J Chen1, N D LaFrance, M D Allo
1Department of Radiology, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland 21205.
The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism
|June 1, 1988
Summary
Single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) enhances thyroid imaging by providing functional volume estimates and detailed evaluation of nodules and multinodular goiters, aiding in diagnosis and treatment planning.
Area of Science:
- Nuclear Medicine
- Medical Imaging
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Planar imaging is standard for thyroid assessment.
- Single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) offers cross-sectional imaging capabilities.
- The added value of SPECT in thyroid disease evaluation requires further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess if SPECT imaging augments information from planar thyroid imaging.
- To evaluate SPECT's accuracy in determining functional thyroid volume.
- To investigate SPECT's utility in characterizing thyroid nodules and multinodular goiters.
Main Methods:
- 52 patients with thyroid disease underwent both SPECT and planar pinhole imaging.
- Radioisotopes 123I, Tc99m, and thallium-201 were administered.
- SPECT images were acquired at 30 intervals along a 180-degree arc.
- Neck phantom study assessed functional thyroid volume accuracy.
Main Results:
- SPECT visualized hypofunctioning nodules similarly to planar scans.
- SPECT revealed functional properties of palpable nodules with normal planar scans.
- Transaxial SPECT identified tracheal compression in 6/12 multinodular goiters.
- SPECT-estimated thyroid volumes strongly correlated with true volumes (r=0.996).
Conclusions:
- SPECT is a valuable adjunct to planar imaging for thyroid disease.
- It aids in estimating functional volume for 131I dosimetry.
- SPECT effectively evaluates multinodular goiter extension and tracheal compression.
- It helps determine functional properties of nodules missed by planar imaging.