What does high and low contrast resolution evaluate in a CT scan?

High and low contrast resolution in a CT scan evaluates the system's ability to differentiate between various densities within the imaging area, which directly affects image clarity. High contrast resolution pertains to the system's ability to distinguish between objects that have slight differences in density, which is crucial for identifying tumors, lesions, or other subtle abnormalities. Conversely, low contrast resolution assesses the ability to detect small density differences against a background with more uniform density. Together, both aspects contribute significantly to the overall clarity of the scanned images, enabling radiologists to interpret these images more accurately and making high contrast resolution integral for diagnostic effectiveness.

Understanding contrast resolution is fundamental for ensuring that the images produced are of sufficient quality to support accurate diagnoses.