Computed Tomography (CT) Whole Body with Intravenous Contrast
A whole-body CT scan that uses IV contrast to create detailed cross-sectional images for evaluating many different body regions.
["This scan uses X-rays and injected contrast to help identify and evaluate conditions involving multiple organs or body regions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 46306-7
- Short code
- CT Whole body W contr IV
- Synonyms
- CT Whole body W contr IV
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ct
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
A whole-body CT scan uses X-rays and a computer to create detailed cross-sectional images of the body. Intravenous contrast is injected into a vein before or during imaging to help blood vessels and certain tissues appear more clearly.
Why might I need this test?
This scan may be used to evaluate unexplained symptoms, look for infection, injury, bleeding, tumors, or other abnormalities, and assess the extent of a known condition. It can also help monitor the response to treatment or plan surgery and other procedures.
How is the test performed?
You will lie on a motorized table that moves through the CT scanner while X-ray images are taken. IV contrast is typically given through a vein in your arm, and the scan usually takes only a short time, although the total visit may be longer.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the instructions provided by the imaging center, which may include avoiding food or drinks for a limited time, continuing medications as directed, and telling staff about allergies, kidney disease, pregnancy, or prior contrast reactions. Some scans may also require oral contrast, so ask whether you should drink the supplied contrast solution and for how long.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal findings may indicate conditions such as infection, inflammation, bleeding, injury, obstruction, cysts, tumors, or problems involving the organs and blood vessels. The radiologist interprets the images in the context of your symptoms, medical history, and other tests, and the ordering clinician explains the significance and any recommended follow-up.
Short name
Whole-body CT with IV contrast
Frequently asked questions
Is a whole-body CT with IV contrast the same as a routine CT?
Will I feel the contrast injection?
Are there risks from the radiation or 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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy