Protocol for delayed contrast enhancement in computed tomography of cerebral neoplasia

One hundred cranial computed tomograms of adults with known or suspected intracranial neoplasm were analyzed retrospectively. Rapid high-dose intravenous contrast infusion (84.6 g l) was followed by immediate and 1 1/2-hour delayed scans. Delayed images afforded more information than the initial series in 67% of cases. 11.5% false-negative examinations (i.e., no tumor reported) would have resulted if studies were terminated after the immediate post-infusion scans. No patient experienced clinically detectable renal compromise.