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IMAGE INTERPRETATION · THYROID AND PARATHYROID

Normal Radioactive Iodine Uptake (RAIU) Range

I-123 thyroid uptake study
I-123 thyroid uptake study

CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons · source file

Question

The radioactive iodine uptake (RAIU) test measures the percentage of administered radioiodine taken up by the thyroid gland at a specified time interval. What is the NORMAL range for 24-hour RAIU in the United States?

  1. A1–5%
  2. B10–35%
  3. C50–80%
  4. D80–99%
Show the answer and explanation

B. 10–35%

In the United States, the normal 24-hour RAIU is approximately 10–35% (the exact range varies by laboratory but typically 15–35%). This range is lower than in iodine-deficient countries because Americans consume a relatively iodine-sufficient diet (from iodized salt, seafood, dairy), which dilutes the administered radioiodine with stable iodine and reduces fractional uptake. RAIU >35% at 24 hours suggests hyperthyroidism (Graves', toxic MNG, toxic adenoma). RAIU <10% suggests hypothyroidism, thyroiditis, iodine excess, or recent iodine load. RAIU measurement requires accurate background correction and proper probe calibration.

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