Nuances of the unenhanced abdominal CT: careful inspection discloses critical findings

Abdom Imaging. 2015 Oct;40(7):2883-93. doi: 10.1007/s00261-015-0422-z.

Abstract

Patients who have unenhanced abdominal CT scans are often critically ill. The unenhanced CT may reveal many unsuspected subtle abnormalities in the lower chest, abdomen, and pelvis and accordingly warrants careful attention. This article reviews unenhanced CT findings in the setting of pulmonary embolus, acute aortic syndromes, mesenteric and deep venous thrombosis, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, pancreatitis and its complications, as well as pyelonephritis.

Keywords: Gastrointestinal bleeding; Hemorrhage; Pancreatitis; Pulmonary embolism; Unenhanced CT; Venous thrombus.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aortic Diseases / diagnostic imaging*
  • Contrast Media
  • Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage / diagnostic imaging*
  • Humans
  • Mesenteric Veins / diagnostic imaging
  • Multidetector Computed Tomography
  • Pancreatitis / complications
  • Pancreatitis / diagnostic imaging*
  • Pulmonary Embolism / diagnostic imaging*
  • Thrombosis / diagnostic imaging*
  • Venous Thrombosis / diagnostic imaging

Substances

  • Contrast Media