CT/PET Scan, Temporal Bone, Without Contrast
A combined CT and PET imaging study of the temporal bone that evaluates bony anatomy and metabolic activity without iodinated contrast.
["This test uses CT and PET images to evaluate the temporal bone, which helps assess nearby ear structures and identify abnormal bone or tissue activity."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 30589-6
- Short code
- CT Petr part temp bone WO contr
- Synonyms
- CT Petr part temp bone WO contr
- 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 an imaging test of the temporal bone, the part of the skull that surrounds the middle and inner ear. CT provides detailed pictures of the bone, while PET shows areas of increased metabolic activity; together, the images can help evaluate structural and tissue-level abnormalities.
Why might I need this test?
The test may be used to investigate hearing or balance problems, infection or inflammation, fractures, bone abnormalities, or a suspected tumor. It may also help show whether a known abnormality is active and how it relates to nearby structures.
How is the test performed?
You will lie on a table while a CT scanner takes detailed images of the temporal bone. If PET images are included, a radioactive tracer is usually given before you wait for the tracer to distribute and are then scanned on a combined CT/PET machine.
How do I prepare for the test?
Because no iodinated contrast is used, contrast-related preparation is generally unnecessary. PET may require fasting, hydration, or blood-glucose testing, so follow the specific instructions provided by the imaging center and tell the staff about medications, allergies, pregnancy, or breastfeeding.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal findings may indicate fracture, infection or inflammation, abnormal bone remodeling, or a tumor involving the temporal bone. Increased PET activity can identify areas of increased metabolism but is not specific for cancer and must be interpreted with the CT images and clinical findings.
Short name
Temporal Bone CT/PET
Frequently asked questions
Does this test use contrast?
Is the test safe?
Can this test explain hearing or balance problems?
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