Scans and X-rays
What Does Hyperdense Mean on a CT Scan?
Hyperdense · say it: HY-per-denseAlso written: high attenuation, high density
Short answer
Hyperdense is a CT scan word for an area that looks brighter than the tissue around it because it blocks more X-rays.
What it means
On a CT scan, tissues that block more X-rays look brighter. Bone, calcium, fresh blood and contrast dye are examples of things that often look bright.
Hyperdense means an area looks brighter than its surroundings. The radiologist describes this to help work out what the area is.
Like other imaging words, it describes appearance. What it means depends on where it is and what else is seen.
Where you may see it
- CT scan reports of the head, chest, abdomen and pelvis
📄 How it looks on a report
Hyperdense focus in the gallbladder, consistent with a gallstone.
🙅 What it does not mean
- It does not mean something is dangerous. It only describes brightness on CT.
- It does not have one fixed meaning. Calcium, blood and contrast can all look hyperdense.
- It is not the same as hyperechoic, which is an ultrasound word.
🎯 Check yourself
Which of these is the right meaning of “Hyperdense”?
🗒️ Questions to ask your doctor
🧾 Reports where you will see “Hyperdense”
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🔗 Read more from trusted sources
- “Hyperdense” on MedlinePlus ↗
US National Library of Medicine
- RadiologyInfo.org ↗
Radiological Society of North America and American College of Radiology
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General information about a medical word, not advice about your own results. Ask the clinician who ordered the test what it means for you.