CT SCAN OF BRAIN
Also Known As
Lab Test
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About The Test
Definition
A CT scan of brain (computed tomography of the head) uses a thin beam of X-rays and powerful computers to create detailed cross-sectional images of your skull, brain tissue, and blood vessels.
### CT vs CAT Scan of Brain
There is no difference—CT and CAT are two names for the same technology.
### CT vs MRI Brain Scan
| CT Scan of Brain | MRI Brain Scan |
|------------------|----------------|
| 5–10 minutes | 30–60 minutes |
| Uses X-rays | Uses magnetic fields & radio waves |
| Best for acute bleeding & fractures | Best for subtle tumors & nerve fibers |
| Lower cost | Higher cost |
When and Who Needs a CT Scan of Brain?
Common Symptoms That Prompt a Scan
- Sudden, severe headache (“worst of my life”)
- Head injury after a fall or accident
- Stroke signs—face droop, arm weakness, slurred speech
- New or worsening seizures
Emergency vs Elective
- Emergency: Head trauma, acute stroke, loss of consciousness
- Elective: Chronic headaches, follow-up on known lesions
Special Groups
- Pediatric: Child must weigh ≥15 kg; radiation dose is minimized.
- Geriatric: Kidney function (creatinine) checked if contrast is planned.
List of Parameters
| Parameter | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Slice thickness (0.5–5 mm) | Determines smallest visible detail |
| Reconstruction interval | Overlapping images reduce gaps |
| Windowing – brain vs bone | Adjusts contrast for soft tissue or bone |
| Contrast timing & dose | 70–100 ml injected at 3–5 ml/sec |
Why This Test
- Detect bleeding, tumors, skull fractures, hydrocephalus
- Monitor post-surgical changes after tumor removal or shunt placement
When to Take Test
Benefits
Benefits of Taking the Test
- Fast diagnosis in emergencies—door-to-image in < 15 minutes at Cadabams Diagnostics
- High-resolution bone and calcium visualization
- Lower cost than MRI—ideal for routine screening and follow-up
Illnesses Diagnosed with CT scan of the Brain
- Stroke – differentiates ischemic vs hemorrhagic within minutes
- Traumatic brain injury – shows bleeds, contusions, fractures
- Brain tumors & cysts – reveals size, location, and mass effect
Preparing for test
- Fasting 4 hours only if contrast is planned
- Remove jewelry, hairpins, hearing aids
- Inform staff about pregnancy or claustrophobia (rarely an issue with modern open-bore scanners)
Pre-requisites
- Doctor’s prescription with clinical indication
- Valid ID for registration
- Creatinine report (within 4 weeks) if intravenous contrast is required
Best Time to Take the CT Scan of Brain
- After trauma or sudden symptoms – do not delay; we accept walk-ins 24×7.
- Morning slots are best for patients needing contrast because overnight fasting is easier.
Eligibility
- Adults & children ≥15 kg
- Pregnancy: Scan only if the benefit clearly outweighs the risk; lead shielding provided.
Procedure for Taking a CT Scan of Brain
- Check-in & vitals – ID verified, weight & creatinine reviewed.
- Positioning – Lie on the table; head rests in a soft holder.
- Scan – Table glides in and out of the doughnut-shaped scanner; stay still for 5 minutes.
- Contrast injection (if ordered) – quick IV, may feel warmth or metallic taste.
Caution Before Taking the Test
- Avoid if pregnant unless emergency; inform the technologist.
- Contrast allergy monitoring – 15-minute post-scan observation for any rash or swelling.
Test Results
Results and Interpretations
| Finding / Observation | Description | General Interpretation / Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Ventricular size (lateral ventricle index) | 0.25–0.33 | >0.33 suggests hydrocephalus |
| Midline shift | 0 mm | >5 mm indicates mass effect or herniation |
| Hemorrhage volume | 0 mL | >30 mL carries high surgical risk |
| Extra-ocular muscle thickness | 3–5 mm | >6 mm suggests thyroid eye disease |
| Fat stranding | Absent | Present indicates inflammation infection |
| Foreign body | Absent | Present – locate & measure for surgical planning |
| Orbital floor fracture | Discontinuity & fat herniation | Surgical evaluation within 24–48 h |
| Hyperdense mass | Enhancing lesion in muscle cone | Rule out lymphoma or cavernous haemangioma |
| Sinus opacification | Mucosal thickening or fluid | ENT referral for infection source control |
Risks & Limitations
- Radiation dose: ~2 mSv—the same as 8 months of natural background exposure; risk is low but cumulative.
- Contrast allergy: <1 % develop rash or itching; severe reactions are extremely rare.
- Limitations:
- Very small lesions (< 5 mm) can be missed.
- Bone near the back of the head (posterior fossa) sometimes creates shadows.
Types of CT Scan of Brain
- Non-contrast head CT – First choice in trauma and acute stroke.
- CT brain with IV contrast – Highlights tumors and infections.
- CT perfusion & CT angiography – Maps blood flow and vessel blockages.
FAQs
Is a CT scan of brain painful?
No, it is completely painless and non-invasive.
How long does it take?
5–10 minutes overall; add 10 extra minutes if contrast is used.
Are there side effects?
Side effects are rare. You might feel a brief warmth or metallic taste after contrast
Can I eat before the scan?
Fast for 4 hours only if your doctor has ordered contrast.
When will my results be ready?
Within 2 hours at Cadabams Diagnostics.
Is the radiation harmful?
The dose is very low, and the diagnostic benefit far outweighs the minimal risk, especially in emergencies.