CT Angiography of the Neck Vessels With Intravenous Contrast
A CT scan uses intravenous contrast to create detailed images of the carotid and vertebral arteries supplying the brain.
["This scan helps identify narrowing, blockage, or other problems in the major arteries of the neck."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 36234-3
- Short code
- CTA Neck ves W contr IV
- Synonyms
- CTA Neck ves W contr IV
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 22
- Ref high
- 198
- Critical range
- — – 10000 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ct-angio
- CPT
- 82553
- 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?
CT angiography, or CTA, is an imaging test that shows the blood vessels in the neck. Intravenous contrast is injected to help the arteries appear clearly on the CT images.
Why might I need this test?
The test may be ordered to evaluate symptoms of stroke or transient ischemic attack, such as sudden weakness, speech difficulty, or vision loss. It may also be used to investigate neck artery narrowing, an aneurysm, arterial dissection, or the blood supply before a procedure.
How is the test performed?
An intravenous line is placed in an arm, contrast is injected, and the CT scanner takes several rapid images of the neck. You will usually be asked to remain still and may be instructed to hold your breath briefly.
How do I prepare for the test?
Your imaging team will ask about contrast allergies, kidney disease, and medications before the scan. Tell them if you are pregnant or may be pregnant, and follow any instructions they provide about medications, eating, or drinking.
Reference range
Adult males: 22-198 U/L; Females: 22-198 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Inform provider of any chest pain or symptoms.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal findings may indicate narrowing or blockage of a neck artery, an aneurysm, or an arterial dissection. These findings can help explain symptoms or guide medical or surgical treatment. The results should be interpreted by a radiologist in the context of your symptoms and other examinations.
Short name
CT angiogram of the neck blood vessels
Frequently asked questions
Is this test the same as a routine CT scan?
Does the test use radiation?
What should I do if I have previously reacted to contrast?
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.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy