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Facial Muscle and Skull X-ray (Radiographic Imaging)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test involves taking X-ray images of your facial muscles and skull to examine bone structure, alignment, and potential abnormalities.

Quick summary

["X-rays help doctors check for fractures, infections, or other issues in your facial bones and muscles."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
60597-2
Short code
Face upper/Face all Skull XR
Synonyms
Face upper/Face all Skull XR
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
5
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
xr-measured
CPT
82378
SNOMED
394995008
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 This Test Measures

An X-ray captures detailed images of the bones in your face and skull, including the jaw, teeth, sinuses, and surrounding structures. These images can reveal problems like broken bones, misalignments, or signs of conditions such as infections or tumors.

Why It’s Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like pain, swelling, or deformity in your face; if you’ve experienced trauma; or if you’re being evaluated for certain medical conditions that affect bone health.

Common Uses

X-rays of the facial region are often used to diagnose fractures, evaluate dental issues, check for signs of bone diseases, or assess the results of surgical procedures on the skull or jaw.

Preparation

No special preparation is needed. You may be asked to remove jewelry or clothing covering the area being imaged. Follow any specific instructions your provider gives you, such as avoiding certain medications that could affect imaging quality.

Reference range

Non-smokers: <2.5 ng/mL; Smokers: <5.0 ng/mLN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. For PSA, avoid sexual activity for 24-48 hours before the test.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Frequently asked questions

How long will the results take to return?
Results are typically available within a few days to a week, depending on your healthcare provider’s workflow. Your provider will discuss the findings with you during a follow-up visit.
What does an abnormal X-ray mean?
An abnormal X-ray could indicate fractures, infections, tumors, or other structural issues in your facial bones. Your provider will interpret the results and recommend next steps based on the findings, which may include further tests or treatment.
Is this test painful?
No, this test is not painful. You may feel a slight pressure or sensation from the X-ray machine, but you will not experience discomfort during the procedure.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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