Computed Tomography (CT) Scan of the Mediastinum with Intravenous Contrast
A CT scan of the central chest area using contrast injected through a vein to examine the mediastinum, nearby blood vessels, lymph nodes, and other structures.
["This imaging test uses CT scans and injected contrast to evaluate the central chest and nearby structures in greater detail."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 87874-4
- Short code
- CT Mediastinum W contr IV
- Synonyms
- CT Mediastinum W contr IV
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 10
- Ref high
- 40
- Critical range
- — – 500 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ct
- CPT
- 84484
- SNOMED
- 302774002
- 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 mediastinal CT scan is an X-ray–based imaging test of the mediastinum, the central area of the chest between the lungs. Intravenous contrast is injected through a vein to help highlight blood vessels, organs, lymph nodes, and abnormalities.
Why might I need this test?
Your clinician may order this test to investigate symptoms such as chest pain, coughing, shortness of breath, or unexplained weight loss. It may help identify problems involving lymph nodes, blood vessels, the heart, the esophagus, or nearby tissues.
How is the test performed?
You will lie on a scanning table while a CT machine takes several images. A nurse or technologist will usually place an IV line in your arm and inject the contrast, then you may be asked to remain still or briefly hold your breath.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow your imaging center’s instructions about eating, drinking, and medications. Tell the care team about any contrast allergy, kidney disease, pregnancy, or medicines such as metformin, because these may affect the plan or whether contrast can be used.
Reference range
Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Mediastinal CT with IV contrast
Frequently asked questions
Does this CT scan use radiation?
Is intravenous contrast different from the oral contrast used for some CT scans?
What should I do if I have had a reaction to contrast?
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