Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 13, 2026

Cardiac Magnetic Resonance for the Evaluation of Suspected Cardiac Thrombus: Conventional and Emerging Techniques
Published on: June 11, 2019
IV contrast selection for MDCT: current thoughts and practice
Pamela T Johnson1, Elliot K Fishman
1The Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, 601 N Caroline St., Rm. 3251, Baltimore, MD 21287.
Objective:
The purpose of this article is to review studies evaluating how contrast concentration affects MDCT of the body and to report IV contrast infusion protocols from MDCT angiography and MDCT of abdominal tumors.
Conclusion:
Higher concentrations (350 mg I/mL or greater) may improve visualization of small abdominal arteries. However, preliminary data comparing 300 mg I/mL to higher concentrations for MDCT of hypervascular hepatocellular carcinoma and pancreatic cancer have shown that higher concentrations may not increase tumor conspicuity.
Insights
Higher iodine concentrations (350 mg I/mL+) in MDCT may enhance visualization of small abdominal arteries. However, for hypervascular tumors, higher concentrations may not improve tumor conspicuity.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- MDCT is crucial for body imaging.
- Contrast concentration is a key factor in image quality.
Purpose of the Study:
- Review studies on contrast concentration's effect on MDCT.
- Report IV contrast protocols for MDCT angiography and abdominal tumors.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies evaluating contrast concentration in MDCT.
- Analysis of IV contrast infusion protocols.
Main Results:
- Higher concentrations (≥350 mg I/mL) may improve visualization of small abdominal arteries.
- Preliminary data suggest higher concentrations may not increase conspicuity in hypervascular HCC and pancreatic cancer.
Conclusions:
- Optimizing contrast concentration is essential for MDCT.
- Further research needed to determine optimal concentrations for specific applications.
Related Concept Videos
Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System V: CT
Imaging Studies III: Computed Tomography
Imaging Studies I: CT and MRI
Description of the Procedures
Computed Tomography (CT) scan:
Computed Tomography (CT) scans use X-ray technology to generate detailed images of bones, organs, and tissues. During the scan, the patient lies on a moving table...
Radiological Investigation I: X-ray and CT
Computed Tomography
The technique was invented in the 1970s and is based on the principle that as X-rays pass through the body, they are absorbed or reflected at different levels. In the technique, a patient lies on a motorized platform while a computerized axial tomography (CAT) scanner rotates...
Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System IV: CMRI

