CT-Guided Abdominal Biopsy with Intravenous Contrast
A CT-guided procedure that uses imaging and intravenous contrast to collect abdominal tissue for examination under a microscope.
["This procedure obtains abdominal tissue for diagnosis, with CT imaging and IV contrast helping guide the biopsy."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 89620-9
- Short code
- CT Guided Abd Bx--W contr IV
- Synonyms
- CT Guided Abd Bx--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 CT-guided abdominal biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure in which a needle is directed into an abdominal organ, mass, or lesion using CT scans. Intravenous contrast may be given to improve the visibility of blood vessels and internal structures.
Why might I need this test?
This test may be ordered to investigate an unexplained abdominal mass, enlarged organ, or suspicious lesion. Tissue analysis can help identify conditions such as cancer, infection, or inflammatory disease and may guide treatment.
How is the test performed?
You usually lie on a CT table while local anesthetic is used to numb the biopsy site. The radiologist inserts a biopsy needle under CT guidance, and CT images with contrast help show the needle's position. Several small tissue samples may then be sent to a laboratory for microscopic examination.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the imaging center's instructions, which may include fasting for several hours and temporarily holding certain medicines. Tell the care team about contrast allergies, kidney disease, pregnancy, diabetes, bleeding disorders, and any use of blood thinners or diabetes medicines before the procedure.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Biopsy results may show cancer, infection, inflammation, or another identifiable condition. Results can also be inconclusive, in which case repeat biopsy, additional testing, or another sampling method may be needed. The findings should be interpreted with your symptoms, imaging, and medical history.
Short name
CT-guided abdominal biopsy
Frequently asked questions
Is a CT-guided abdominal biopsy painful?
Why is intravenous contrast used?
When will the biopsy results be available?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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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