CT-Guided Stereotactic Biopsy of the Head Without Contrast
A minimally invasive procedure that uses CT imaging to guide a needle biopsy of a suspicious area in the head, without contrast.
["This test obtains tissue from a suspicious area in the head using CT guidance and no contrast."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 36929-8
- Short code
- CT Guided Head Str Bx--WO contr
- Synonyms
- CT Guided Head Str Bx--WO contr
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 135
- Ref high
- 980
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ct
- CPT
- 82626
- 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 stereotactic biopsy is a procedure in which a needle is guided into a specific area of the head to remove tissue for examination. CT images help the clinician target the exact location, and no contrast is used during the procedure.
Why might I need this test?
This test may be recommended when imaging shows a suspicious mass, lesion, or abnormal tissue in the head and the cause cannot be determined from scans alone. The tissue sample can help identify infection, inflammation, an autoimmune condition, or a benign or cancerous growth.
How is the test performed?
After local numbing medicine is given, the patient may receive sedation depending on the procedure and clinical situation. Using CT guidance, the clinician positions a biopsy needle through the skull or through a small opening and removes one or more small samples of tissue. The samples are then examined in a laboratory.
How do I prepare for the test?
The care team will provide specific instructions, including which medicines to stop or adjust and when to stop eating or drinking. Tell the clinician about allergies, bleeding problems, blood thinners, pregnancy, implanted devices, and any previous reactions to sedation or anesthesia.
Reference range
NCBI: DHEA-S Male 135-980 µg/dL; Female 30-260 µg/dLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
CT-guided head biopsy
Frequently asked questions
Is this test the same as a brain biopsy?
Will I be awake during the biopsy?
How long does it take to get the biopsy results?
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy