CT scan

noun

ˌsē-ˈtē- 

: a cross-sectional, three-dimensional image of an internal body part produced by computed tomography chiefly for diagnostic purposes

The CT scan showed dilation of the ventricles, the fluid-filled cavities in the brain.

—Burak Ozgur

What distinguishes a CT scan from a conventional x-ray is its geometry. … Measurements are collected and assembled by a computer into images that correspond to anatomical slices of the body.

—Adam Rogers

called also CAT scan

see ct scanner

CT scanning noun

Examples of CT scan in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Sala said that while routine blood tests are often normal with his long Covid patients, more specialized testing — such as blood tests while a patient is exercising, or a CT scan after Covid pneumonia — turns up abnormal. —Akshay Syal, M.d., NBC News, 12 Aug. 2024

Meanwhile, right-hander Blake Treinen had X-rays and a CT scan after being hit in the right side by a line drive during Saturday’s game. —Bill Plunkett, Orange County Register, 11 Mar. 2024

Doctors decided that Kira needed an immediate CT scan to figure out if there were any internal complications. —Pamela Appea, Parents, 9 Mar. 2024

Word History

Etymology

computerized tomography

First Known Use

1974, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

CT scan

noun

ˌsē-ˈtē- 

: cat scan

Medical Definition

CT scan

noun

(ˈ)sē-ˈtē- 

: a cross-sectional, three-dimensional image of an internal body part produced by computed tomography chiefly for diagnostic purposes

A CT scan detected a lesion on her jawbone …

—David Wallis, The New York Times

The CT scan showed dilation of the ventricles, the fluid-filled cavities in the brain.

—Burak Ozgur, Discover

The CT scan shows a large mass within the lumen of the ascending colon.

—The New England Journal of Medicine

What distinguishes a CT scan from a conventional x-ray is its geometry. … Measurements are collected and assembled by a computer into images that correspond to anatomical slices of the body.

—Adam Rogers, Harvard Medical Health Letter

called also CAT scan