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CT (CAT) Scan - Definition of CT (CAT) Scan

By Matthew Schmitz, M.D., About.com

Updated: October 17, 2009

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Definition:

A CT scan (sometimes called a CAT scan) allows for a detailed image to be taken of the internal tissues of the body. CT is an abbreviation that stands for "computed tomography." In fact, a powerful computer works to put together the large amount of information obtained by this test into a detailed picture of the body.

CT scans use x-rays aimed from multiple, different points around the patient to obtain their images and, therefore, expose the patient to some radiation.

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