CT Abdomen Without Contrast or CT Chest, Abdomen, and Pelvis with IV Contrast
A CT scan uses X-rays to create detailed images of the abdomen, or the chest, abdomen, and pelvis. Some versions use IV contrast to improve image clarity.
["This CT imaging evaluates organs and tissues in the abdomen and may also examine the chest and pelvis, sometimes with IV contrast."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 87864-5
- Short code
- CT Abd WO + CT Chest+Abd+Pel W contr IV
- Synonyms
- CT Abd WO + CT Chest+Abd+Pel 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?
Computed tomography, or CT, uses X-rays and a computer to create cross-sectional images of the body. The scan may cover the abdomen alone or the chest, abdomen, and pelvis, with or without intravenous (IV) contrast.
Why might I need this test?
CT imaging may be used to evaluate abdominal pain, injury, infection, inflammation, stones, tumors, or other changes in internal organs and blood vessels. The chest and pelvis may also be included to assess nearby structures or the spread of a condition.
How is the test performed?
You lie on a table that moves through a doughnut-shaped X-ray machine. The scan is generally painless and usually takes less than 30 minutes; if IV contrast is used, it may be injected through a vein in your arm.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the instructions provided by the imaging center, as fasting or other preparation may depend on the scan protocol. Tell the care team about kidney disease, prior contrast reactions, iodine or shellfish allergy, pregnancy, and any medicines you take, including metformin if prescribed.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
The scan may identify or clarify conditions involving the chest, abdominal organs, pelvis, blood vessels, bones, or soft tissues. Findings are interpreted by a radiologist in the context of your symptoms, examination, and other tests. Any abnormal result should be discussed with the ordering clinician because CT findings can have several possible causes.
Short name
CT Abdomen and CT Chest/Abdomen/Pelvis
Frequently asked questions
Is the CT scan painful?
Why is IV contrast used?
Will I be able to drive after the test?
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