CT Scan of the Chest, Limited, With Intravenous Contrast
A focused CT scan of the chest performed after injecting iodinated contrast into a vein to provide clearer images of the lungs and nearby structures.
["This test uses a limited chest CT with IV contrast to help identify or evaluate abnormalities in the lungs and chest."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 69096-6
- Short code
- CT Chest Ltd W contr IV
- Synonyms
- CT Chest Ltd 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?
This is a focused computed tomography (CT) scan of the chest. Intravenous contrast is given through a vein to help highlight blood vessels and certain tissues; the exact areas scanned are determined by the imaging order.
Why might I need this test?
A chest CT with contrast may be ordered to investigate suspected lung or chest abnormalities, such as a mass, infection, blood clot, or other structural problem. It may also be used to assess nearby blood vessels and lymph nodes or to monitor an existing condition.
How is the test performed?
A technologist places an IV line in your arm or hand and injects the contrast. You then lie on the CT table while the scanner takes images, and you may be asked to hold your breath briefly. The images are reviewed by a radiologist and sent to your ordering clinician.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the imaging center's instructions. Tell the care team if you have previously reacted to CT contrast, have kidney disease, are pregnant or may be pregnant, or take medicines such as metformin; they will advise you about any needed precautions or medication changes.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal findings may include lung nodules, infection, fluid or collapse, enlarged lymph nodes, narrowing of blood vessels, or a mass. Results can be uncertain and may be compared with prior scans or followed with additional imaging. Your clinician should interpret the findings in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Short name
Limited CT chest with IV contrast
Frequently asked questions
Is this the same as a routine chest X-ray?
Does the IV contrast usually cause a serious reaction?
Will I be able to drive home 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