Contrast is typically a dye that helps to outline organs or blood vessels. Flouroscopy, MRIs, or CAT scans can see much of the body structures without contrast, but to obtain more detailed images a physician may order the tests to be done "with contrast".
Other types of contrast material may be barium (ex. a "barium swallow" or upper GI with contrast shows the esophagus and stomach) or radioactive (ex. for thyroid testing).
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Contrast medium is used in diagnostic tests like CT scans and MRIs to improve the visibility of certain tissues or structures that are otherwise difficult to see. It helps to highlight the area of interest by making it appear more distinct from surrounding tissues. This can aid in making a more accurate diagnosis or evaluating the function of organs.
Intrathecal contrast is a type of contrast agent that is injected into the space around the spinal cord (subarachnoid space) during certain types of imaging tests, such as myelograms or CT myelograms. It helps in highlighting abnormalities in the spinal cord and surrounding structures, providing clearer images for diagnosis.
Yes, Percocet can affect certain blood tests, such as liver function tests, by potentially causing abnormal results. It is important to inform your healthcare provider if you are taking Percocet before undergoing any blood tests to ensure accurate interpretation of the results.
SrCl2 refers to strontium chloride, which is a chemical compound composed of strontium and chlorine ions. It is commonly used in the manufacturing of pyrotechnics, fireworks, and in medicine for certain diagnostic tests.
A gold-top blood collection tube is typically used for serum tests, including comprehensive metabolic panels (CMP), liver function tests, lipid profiles, and hormone levels. These tests can provide information about a person's overall health, organ function, and risk factors for certain diseases.
Technetium is mainly used in nuclear medicine for diagnostic imaging procedures like bone scans, heart imaging, and kidney tests. It is also used as a tracer in environmental studies and industrial applications for detecting leaks and monitoring fluid flow. Additionally, technetium is being researched for potential future applications in superconductors and batteries.