CT Question

[Bossmarebossmare]

How long does it take for a brain bleed to show up on a 16 slice CT scan in a 14 month old baby? And can you tell me where I can find information on this? PLEASE

[caregiver222]

As doctornee stated a dye contrast MRI (MRA) would be more appropriate in view of the absence of radiation damage and the fact the contrast medium is better tolerated. This does not mean they did anything wrong with ordering a CT. Generally they do so because an MRI is not always available and time is of the essence.

[Dr. Kokil Mathur]

No, the time of injury cannot be told, but yes, an old injury can be differentiated from a recent one (say within 24 hours) by a CT or MRI.

[Bossmarebossmare]

Is there any way to tell exactly when the injury that caused the bleed to start happened?

[Dr. Kokil Mathur]

Hi
Welcome to the MedHelp forum!
Normally a 16 slice CT scan will catch a brain bleed in a 14 month old immediately. However, if there is a slow subarachnoid hemorrhage, it may not show up in an initial scan say one done within 24 hours. At times this bleed starts a week after injury causing symptoms and the need for a MRI. If the child is symptomatic consult a neurosurgeon and maybe MRI will be a better option with less radiation exposure.Take care!