CT Abdomen, Limited Diagnostic Study — With Intravenous Contrast
A limited CT scan of the abdomen using iodine-based contrast injected into a vein to evaluate abdominal organs, symptoms, and possible abnormalities.
["This scan uses X-rays and intravenous contrast to create detailed images of the abdomen."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 36095-8
- Short code
- CT Abd Ltd W contr IV
- Synonyms
- CT Abd Ltd W contr IV
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ct
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
This is a limited CT scan of the abdomen performed after iodine-based contrast is injected into a vein. CT uses X-rays and computer processing to create cross-sectional images of the abdomen.
Why might I need this test?
A clinician may order this scan to evaluate abdominal pain, unexplained symptoms, suspected organ disease, infection, injury, a mass, or blockage. It can also help assess organs such as the liver, kidneys, pancreas, spleen, and intestines.
How is the test performed?
You lie on a table that moves through a CT scanner while X-ray images are taken. IV contrast is usually administered through a vein in your arm or hand, and the images are reviewed by a radiologist.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the instructions provided by the imaging center. Fasting may be required for some examinations, and you may need a blood test to check kidney function before receiving contrast. Tell the care team about prior contrast reactions, kidney disease, thyroid disease, pregnancy, or any allergies.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal findings may reflect conditions affecting the abdominal organs or surrounding tissues, such as infection, inflammation, injury, obstruction, stones, fluid collections, or a mass. The significance depends on the specific organs examined and the clinical reason for the scan, so results should be interpreted with your ordering clinician.
Short name
Limited abdominal CT with IV contrast
Frequently asked questions
Is this the same as a routine abdominal X-ray?
What happens when I receive the IV contrast?
Will I be able to drive home afterward?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy