Is thyroid nuclear scan a better investigation than ultrasound?

Tests: The ultrasound is the best test for determining thyroid size and nodule characteristics. The scan can help determine risk for cancer. A better test than the scan is needle biopsy. The biopsy is ther most definite test short of major surgery.

Different no better: A thyroid nuclear uptake and scan is a functional test of your thyroid. It is useful in differentiating causes of thyrotoxicosis (excessive amounts of thyroid hormones in the body). A thyroid ultrasound is better to assess the anatomy of the thyroid gland and for guidance if biopsy is needed.

Depends: Nuclear scan can be used following ultrasound to see if nodule detected by US is hypo or hyper functioning. Thyroid cancer is more prevalent with hypofunctioning nodules but can occur with both types.In any way if nodule greater than 1.5 cm should be biopsied. Nuclear scans are commonly used to assess hyperfunctioning thyroid gland and used prior to radiation abation therapy for Graves disease.