CT-Guided Biopsy, With or Without Intravenous Contrast
A CT-guided biopsy uses CT imaging to help obtain a tissue sample for examination. Intravenous contrast may be used to guide the procedure.
["This image-guided procedure collects tissue so a pathologist can check for disease."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 46289-5
- Short code
- CT Guided Bx--WO+W contr IV
- Synonyms
- CT Guided Bx--WO+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 biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure in which CT scans help a clinician locate the area to be sampled and guide a needle to collect tissue. The tissue is then examined in a laboratory for conditions such as infection, inflammation, or cancer.
Why might I need this test?
A biopsy may be recommended when an imaging study shows a suspicious or unexplained mass, swelling, or abnormal tissue. It can help determine what is causing the finding and whether further treatment is needed.
How is the test performed?
You will usually lie on a CT table while the clinician identifies the biopsy site using images. The area is numbed, a small incision may be made, and a biopsy needle is guided to collect tissue. Intravenous contrast may be given, and sedation may be used depending on the procedure and your comfort needs.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the instructions provided by the imaging center, which may include fasting or medication restrictions. Tell the care team about allergies to contrast dye, pregnancy, kidney disease, bleeding disorders, and the use of blood thinners before the procedure. Do not stop any medication unless your clinician specifically instructs you to do so.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Biopsy results may show no significant abnormality, a benign process, inflammation, infection, or abnormal cells that may indicate cancer. Results are interpreted by a pathologist in combination with your symptoms, imaging findings, and other laboratory tests. If additional testing is needed, your clinician will explain the next steps.
Short name
CT-guided biopsy
Frequently asked questions
Is a CT-guided biopsy painful?
Will I receive intravenous contrast?
How soon are the biopsy results available?
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