Previously, we explored the basic physics that powers thyroid ultrasound. In this article, we are going to guide you through some common ultrasound terminologies you might encounter in your thyroid treatment journey.
Brightness (Echogenicity) Terms
- Echogenicity: term used to describe the ability of a structure to reflect ultrasound waves and bounce (generate) echoes. The brightness of a structure appears on ultrasound screen depends on its surround structures.
- Hyperechoic (More Echogenic): structure appears brighter (more echogenic) on ultrasound than surrounding structures.
- Hypoechoic (Less Echogenic/Echopenic): structure appears darker (less echogenic or echopenic) than surrounding structures.
- Anechoic/Echo-free: structure appears black, no internal echoes are produced (bounced) from the structure. Typically see this in simple fluid-filled cysts.
- Isoechoic: structure exhibits the same brightness as its surround structure, same echogenicity.
- Echogenicity terms are relative. Ex. The normal liver parenchyma appears isoechoic to kidney’s echotexture. However, when liver becomes fatty, it appears hyperechoic or more echogenic than the kidney.
Characteristic Terms
Cyst: Well-defined, spherical, fluid-filled structure with sharp/clear back wall. Contains few or no internal echoes. Simple cyst usually appears anechoic on ultrasound. Cystic is used to describe fluid-filled structures. Cystic nodules usually carry a low possibility of malignancy.
Simple: a structure that has only one composition either solid (echogenic) or fluid-filled (anechoic).
Complex: a structure that contains both solid and fluid-filled components.
Now you’ve learned some common terminologies used in ultrasound. In the next article, we will go through some basic sonographic features of the thyroid.
Remember, your doctor is ALWAYS the ultimate go-to person for any of your medical-related questions.
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