CT Abdomen Without and With Contrast Protocol
A CT scan of the abdomen performed before and after contrast is used to examine abdominal organs, blood vessels, and other structures in detail.
["This CT scan combines images taken before and after contrast to help identify conditions affecting the abdomen."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 103860-3
- Short code
- CT Abd W contr PO
- Synonyms
- CT Abd W contr PO
- 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 computed tomography (CT) scan of the abdomen. It includes images taken without contrast and additional images after contrast is given, allowing radiologists to compare tissues and see certain organs and blood vessels more clearly.
Why might I need this test?
Your clinician may order this scan to evaluate abdominal pain or swelling, infection, kidney stones, injury, appendicitis, pancreatitis, liver disease, or an unexplained mass. It may also be used to assess the appearance of organs and blood vessels and to help plan procedures or treatment.
How is the test performed?
You lie on a table that moves through the CT scanner while X-ray images are taken. For the contrast portion, contrast is usually injected through a vein, followed by timed images. The scan is painless, but you may be asked to hold your breath briefly.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the specific instructions from your imaging center. Some protocols require fasting or oral contrast. Tell the care team if you have had a prior contrast reaction, kidney disease, or an allergy to contrast, and notify them if you are pregnant or may be pregnant.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
The scan may reveal abnormalities involving the abdominal organs, bowel, blood vessels, urinary tract, or surrounding tissues. Findings can include inflammation, infection, stones, fluid collections, injury, narrowing or blockage, and masses. A radiologist will interpret the images, and your clinician will explain the results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Short name
CT Abdomen With/Without Contrast
Frequently asked questions
Does this test use IV contrast?
Is a CT abdomen with and without contrast painful?
How soon will I receive the results?
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