Thyroid Isotope Test

[itsgottabedone]

I know there have been several posts about Thyroid problems in this forum but I'm yet to find an answer to this question...

I've been initially diagnosed with subclinical hyperthyroidism. Having had blood tests and a ultrasound already, I've been recommended to get a 'Thyroid Isotope' test done as the next stage of diagnosis. Unfortunately I'm unable to get an appointment for another month where I'm based currently (Middle East).

I know Bumrungrad has Thyroid specialists. As I don't want to wait another month for a complete diagnosis and start treatment, I want to make a short trip to Bangkok (4-7 days) to complete the process. It looks like I can book an appointment with a Thyroid specialist in advance and assuming they refer me to the Nuclear Medicin department I'm hoping to get the Isotope test at the same time (on the same trip).

Does anybody have any experience of how long it will take to get an appointment for this type of test either at Bumrungrad or other hospital in BKK? Can I see a Thyroid therapist for the usual consultation / blood tests on day 1 and then the Isotope test, day 2? Or is there usually a longer wait.

I've emailed Bumrungrad today (marked for the attention of one of the thyroid specialist doctors they list on their website). I'm hoping they can confirm in advance so I can make travel plans. I will follow up with a call tomorrow.

In the meantime I'm keen to get feedback from TV members who have been through the same process.

Many thanks :-)

[Sheryl]

No wait, in fact might be able to see the specialist and have the scan in the same day, provided your appointment was early. This is assuming they are able to do thyroid scans (I would expect so).

To save time/trouble it would be good to have with you a note from your doctor stating test results to date and requesting the scan. Otherwise you may be put through some duplicate initial tests and also run into problems if the specialist you see doesn't think the scan is indicated. (I am also a bit puzzled as they are usually done for nodules...?)

[itsgottabedone]

Thanks for the reply. Infact I had an email reply from the doctor today saying all the relevant consultantions and tests can be completed within 3 days so I've booked an appointment and travel plans accordingly - I got an appointment for next week. Hopefully I can complete in just 1 or 2 days. There are a number of thyroid specialists at Bumrungrad and they don't work everyday so it's worth checking in advance as they want you to follow through with the same doctor.

I've already provided by email blood test and ultrasound results so this should speed up the process as you suggest.

You're right my ultrasound showed tiny nodules and hence the recommendation for Isotope test as the next step.

BTW I'm very impressed with Bumrungrad speed of response, general efficiency and the fact you can identify doctors / specialists from their website and send them an email query. I know we're paying for this privilgence .. but compared to the nightmare experience I've had a private hospital here in the middle east ....Bumrungrad is a welcome alternative.