Thyroid Team
The thyroid clinic operates by having patients come in for examinations and testing of thyroid function. Doctors usually perform an examination, including palpation of the thyroid gland, and prescribe laboratory blood tests to assess the level of thyroid hormones. If abnormalities are found, the doctor may prescribe treatment with medication or, in more severe cases, surgery. The goal of treatment is to maintain normal thyroid function.
WHO MAKES UP THE THYROID CLINIC?
The thyroid clinic usually consists of endocrinologists, nuclear medicine specialists, and head and neck surgery specialists. The following diagnostic procedures are typically performed at the thyroid clinic:
- Thyroid examination – The doctor will examine the thyroid through palpation to determine if there are any abnormalities in size or consistency.
- Laboratory blood tests – This test will include determining the level of thyroid hormones and hormones that control the thyroid.
- Ultrasound examination of the thyroid – Using an ultrasound device, the specialist visually displays the structure and appearance of the thyroid.
- Thyroid biopsy – If malignant or persistent abnormalities are suspected, the doctor may prescribe a thyroid biopsy for further analysis.
- Other examinations, such as thyroid scintigraphy and functional tests of the thyroid, may also be conducted depending on the clinical situation of the patient.
All diagnostic procedures are aimed at determining thyroid function and identifying any abnormalities in the thyroid.
