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Brain CT Scan with Intravenous Contrast

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

A CT scan creates detailed images of the brain using radiation and an injected contrast agent to improve the visibility of blood vessels and tissues.

Quick summary

["This test uses imaging and injected contrast to help identify problems affecting the brain, including bleeding, blockages, swelling, or masses."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
106844-4
Short code
CT Cerebral v W contr IV
Synonyms
CT Cerebral v 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?

A brain CT scan uses X-rays to create cross-sectional images of the brain. Intravenous contrast is a special dye injected into a vein, which can help make blood vessels, infections, tumors, and areas of abnormal blood flow easier to see.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test to investigate symptoms such as severe headache, weakness, confusion, seizures, vision changes, or head injury. It may also help evaluate a stroke, bleeding, infection, tumor, swelling, or other structural problem in the brain.

How is the test performed?

You lie on a table that moves through a CT scanner while X-ray images are taken. If contrast is needed, it is usually injected into a vein in your arm, and the scan is done quickly; the images are then reviewed by a radiologist.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's instructions about eating, drinking, and medicines. Tell the care team if you have previously reacted to contrast, have kidney or thyroid disease, are pregnant or may be pregnant, or have another significant medical condition.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Brain CT with IV contrast

Frequently asked questions

Is a brain CT scan with contrast the same as an MRI?
No. CT uses X-rays and is usually faster, while MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves and provides different types of images. Your clinician chooses the test based on the condition being evaluated and how urgently an answer is needed.
Is the intravenous contrast material safe?
Contrast is generally well tolerated, but some people may have allergic-like reactions or kidney-related complications. Tell the care team about prior contrast reactions, kidney disease, thyroid disease, or pregnancy before the scan.
Will I know the results immediately?
The images are usually reviewed by a radiologist and a report is sent to your ordering clinician. Your clinician will explain the findings and discuss any next steps; urgent findings may be communicated promptly.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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