###1: Computed Tomography Cerebral Atrophy Index
###3: This test uses brain CT images to estimate the degree of cerebral atrophy, or loss of brain tissue. It may be used alongside the clinical evaluation of memory, thinking, or other neurologic symptoms.
["###4: A higher index generally suggests greater brain atrophy, but the result must be interpreted with symptoms, age, and the CT report."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 53626-8
- Short code
- CT VFr Cerebral atrophic index
- Synonyms
- CT VFr Cerebral atrophic index
- Category
- chemistry
- 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
###5: What the test measures
###6: Cerebral atrophy is a reduction in the volume of brain tissue. The index combines measurements from CT images to provide an estimate of brain-volume loss and may also reflect enlargement of the brain’s fluid-containing spaces.
###7: How the test is performed
###8: A CT scanner creates detailed images of the brain using low-dose X-rays. A clinician or radiology system reviews the images and calculates the atrophy index; the test is usually obtained as part of a standard brain CT examination.
###9: How results are interpreted
###10: A higher index generally indicates more pronounced atrophy. Interpretation depends on the measurement method, age, medical history, and other CT findings, so the index should be considered together with the full radiology report rather than by itself.
###11: Important limitations
###11: Brain atrophy can occur with several neurologic conditions and is not specific to one diagnosis. Symptoms may also exist without measurable atrophy, and the index does not independently determine a diagnosis, prognosis, or need for treatment.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
###13: Clinical significance: This index can support assessment of brain-volume loss in people with cognitive decline, neurologic symptoms, or suspected neurodegenerative disease. It is most useful when reviewed with the CT findings, medical history, examination, and other appropriate testing; a higher value does not establish Alzheimer disease or another specific condition.
Short name
###2: CT Cerebral Atrophy Index
Frequently asked questions
###14: Is cerebral atrophy the same as Alzheimer disease?
###16: Does the test require contrast material or a lumbar puncture?
###18: Can a single index explain memory or thinking 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.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy