Expert: Karen Brawner - 1/5/2005

Question
Over the last couple years, my TSH counts have been low.  A couple different doctors diagnosed me  hyperthyroid. Twice I was sent to a specialist for a RAIU and scans and was denied. The specialist felt that because my T3 and T4 were normal and he felt no nodules, that I was fine.  I began having swelling in my legs, memory problems and dizziness to name a few symptoms. Cardio tests were normal. Recently I went for a general OB/GYN checkup. The doctor was more concerned with my prior blood tests of the low TSH.  He too, recommended RAIU and scans.  They came back asymmetry of the thyroid.  The radiologist sugested that the doctor order an ultrasound.  The ultrasound stated that no masses on either side, but overall echotexture is heterogeneous.
Right lobe measures: 3.7 x 1.6 x 1.4 cm and
Left lobe measures:  3.6 x 1.1 x 1.1 cm.  

I have never been on any medication as of yet.  I am not sure what all this really means.  Can you explain more what this means? Is this anything to be concerned with?  

Answer
Dear Cathy,  This basically means that the echotexture of the thyroid glands are heterogeneous (meaning: different in kind, unlike, incongruous).....  Since I am neither a doctor or a radiologist, I really can't tell you exactly what this means in the way of further testing or treatment, but, I can tell you that your thyroid glands are NOT normal...

If I were you I would see an Endocrinologist/Surgeon....  Now that you have actual radiology reports of both the RAIU and the Ultrasound, the endocrinolgist/surgeon can better help you with what needs to be done....

thank you,   karen