CT Brachial Plexus with Intravenous Contrast
A CT scan of the brachial plexus using intravenous contrast to examine the nerves and nearby tissues in the shoulder and upper arm.
["This imaging test uses CT and injected contrast to evaluate the brachial plexus and nearby structures."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 89835-3
- Short code
- CT Brachial plexus W contr IV
- Synonyms
- CT Brachial plexus W contr IV
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 44
- Ref high
- 147
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ct
- CPT
- 84075
- SNOMED
- 27550007
- 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 brachial plexus, a network of nerves that controls movement and sensation in the shoulder, arm, and part of the hand. Intravenous contrast is used to improve the visibility of tissues and blood vessels.
Why might I need this test?
The test may be recommended to evaluate suspected nerve injury, nerve compression, inflammation, a mass, or other abnormalities affecting the shoulder or arm. It can also help guide treatment or procedures involving the brachial plexus.
How is the test performed?
You lie on a CT table while the scanner takes X-ray images from different angles. Contrast material is usually injected through a vein in your arm, and the images are reviewed for abnormalities in the brachial plexus and surrounding tissues.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the instructions provided by the imaging center, especially any kidney function or contrast allergy requirements. Tell the care team if you are pregnant, have previously reacted to contrast, or have kidney disease.
Reference range
Adult: 44-147 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
The scan may show nerve enlargement, compression, inflammation, injury, or a nearby mass. Findings are interpreted together with symptoms, physical examination, and other tests because imaging alone may not determine the exact cause of arm weakness, numbness, or pain.
Short name
CT brachial plexus with contrast
Frequently asked questions
Is this a blood test?
How does intravenous contrast work?
What if I am allergic to iodine-based 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.
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