A member asked:

Had thyroid scan, came back overactive, have normal blood test. does hyperthyroidism mean cancer? will this stop me from having weight loss surgery

7 doctors weighed in across 3 answers

Thyroid scan: Can not diagnose thyroid overactivity, only it's structure and anatomy. Lab tests, if normal, rule out hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism (fairly common) does not mean thyroid cancer, which can occur but is not common. Check w/your doctor.

Answered 10/25/2013

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Hyperthyroidism: If a radioactive iodine scan was performed, they probably calculated a 24 hr uptake which was likely high since you are saying that "the thyroid scan came back overactive". Hyperthyroidism does not mean cancer. Thyroid cancer usually presents as a cold spot (not overactive) on thyroid scan. If you are hyperthyroid, this condition would actually help you lose weight.

Answered 5/6/2015

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Don't worry.: Although hyperthyroidism could be related to a nodule within the thyroid, it often wouldn't be cancerous. Should undergo biopsy to be sure, however, if a nodule is present after completion of nuclear scan. That being said, should be fine for weight loss surgery.

Answered 2/5/2016

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