Computed Tomography (CT Brain) Flashcards
7 cards from real Computed Tomography Test practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Computed Tomography (CT Brain) flashcards as text
On a non-contrast CT brain, a hyperdense (bright) lesion within the basal ganglia most likely represents:
Answer: Acute hemorrhage
Acute blood is hyperdense on non-contrast CT due to the high protein content of clotted hemoglobin.
Which CT finding is most characteristic of a subdural hematoma compared to an epidural hematoma?
Answer: Crescent-shaped collection that crosses suture lines
Subdural hematomas form a crescent shape and follow the brain contour, crossing suture lines, unlike the lenticular epidural hematoma.
A CT brain shows a hypodense wedge-shaped area in the right MCA territory that does not enhance. This pattern is most consistent with:
Answer: Subacute ischemic infarction
A wedge-shaped hypodensity in a vascular territory without enhancement is classic for subacute ischemic infarction following blood-brain barrier breakdown.
The 'hyperdense MCA sign' on non-contrast CT brain indicates:
Answer: Acute thrombus within the middle cerebral artery
The hyperdense MCA sign reflects acute thrombus in the proximal MCA lumen, an early sign of large-vessel occlusion.
On CT brain, which structure normally appears hyperdense (bright) without contrast administration?
Answer: Choroid plexus
The choroid plexus is normally hyperdense due to its highly vascular nature and calcification in adults.
A patient presents with thunderclap headache. CT brain shows hyperdense material in the basal cisterns. The most likely diagnosis is:
Answer: Subarachnoid hemorrhage
Subarachnoid hemorrhage classically presents with thunderclap headache and appears as hyperdensity filling the basal cisterns on CT.
Which window setting is most appropriate for evaluating brain parenchyma on CT?
Answer: Window width 80 HU, level 40 HU
A narrow window (80 HU width) centered at 40 HU maximizes contrast between gray matter, white matter, and CSF for brain evaluation.