Thyroid

Question 1

Is the parathyroid typically seen on US?

Answer 1

No

Question 2

What is the normal size of the thyroid?

Answer 2

It depends on body habitus/size, gender, and age
Length 4-6 cm
Width 1-2 cm
Thickness 1-2 cm
Isthmus 2-6 mm

Question 3

Where is the esophagus located?

Answer 3

Posterior to the left lobe of the thyroid gland

Question 4

Describe thyroid vasculature

Answer 4

It derives blood from
Two superior thyroid arteries that come from the external carotid
Two inferior thyroid arteries that come from the subclavian artery
Superior and middle arteries drain into internal jugular vein

Question 5

What is the endocrine function of the thyroid gland?

Answer 5

Maintaining body metabolism, growth, and development through the synthesis, storage, and secretion of thyroid hormones

Question 6

What is the T3 hormone?

Answer 6

Triiodothyronine

It functions in maintaining muscle control, brain function and development, and heart and digestive functions

Question 7

What is the T4 hormone?

Answer 7

Thyroxine

Functions in better allowing the body to better control the T3 hormone

Question 8

What is TRH?

Answer 8

Thyrotropin releasing hormone

Stimulates the release of TSH, therefore stimulating the thyroid to produce T3 and T4

Question 9

What is calcitonin?

Answer 9

Produced by C cells found between thyroid follicles

Functions in counteracting the increasing blood calcium levels in the bones, kidney, and intestines

Question 10

What is PTH?

Answer 10

Parathyroid hormone
Functions in increasing osteoclast activity in bones, provoking calcium reabsorption in the kidney, and increased vitamin D in the intestines

Question 11

What is the normal sonographic appearance of the thyroid gland?

Answer 11

Homogenous and moderately echogenic

Similar to liver