CT Head Without Contrast and CT Temporal Bone With Intravenous Contrast
Computed tomography scans of the head and temporal bones, with intravenous contrast used for the temporal bone examination.
["These CT scans use detailed images to evaluate the brain, skull, and structures of the inner ear."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 82803-8
- Short code
- CT Head WO+W and CT Temp bone W contr IV
- Synonyms
- CT Head WO+W and CT Temp bone 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 computed tomography (CT) examination that produces detailed cross-sectional images of the head. The head scan is performed without contrast, while the temporal bone scan is performed with intravenous contrast.
Why might I need this test?
A head CT may be used to evaluate head injury, bleeding, infection, or abnormalities involving the brain and skull. A temporal bone CT may help assess the bony structures of the middle and inner ear, hearing-related problems, chronic ear infection, or other changes affecting the skull base.
How is the test performed?
You will lie on a table while an X-ray machine rotates around your head to create computer-generated images. For the contrast-enhanced portion, a technician may inject an iodine-based contrast material into a vein in your arm.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the imaging center's instructions and tell the staff about any prior contrast reactions, iodine allergy, kidney disease, pregnancy, or medications that may affect contrast use. Remove metal objects and personal items from the scanning area when instructed.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal findings may include bleeding, fracture, infection, swelling, or a mass involving the head, brain, skull, or temporal bones. The images can also identify narrowing, erosion, or other structural changes in the middle and inner ear. A radiologist will interpret the scans in the context of your symptoms and the examination order.
Short name
Head and Temporal Bone CT
Frequently asked questions
Does this test use radiation?
Why is contrast used for the temporal bone scan?
Will I need to stay after the scan?
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