Adrenal Washout Calculator
Calculate absolute and relative adrenal washout from CT Hounsfield units to assess adrenal adenoma.
Adrenal Washout on CT
Adrenal washout compares Hounsfield units on non-contrast, portal venous, and delayed CT phases to distinguish adrenal adenomas from other lesions. Related: Creatinine Clearance Calculator.
Washout Formulas
$$\text{Absolute} = 100 \times \frac{post - delayed}{post - pre}$$
$$\text{Relative} = 100 \times \frac{post - delayed}{post}$$
Absolute washout above 60% or relative above 40% strongly suggests adenoma.
Frequently Asked Questions
What HU values are needed?
Pre-contrast, 60 to 75 second post-contrast, and 15 minute delayed phase measurements.
What if pre-contrast HU is above 43?
Lesions above 43 HU are suspicious for malignancy regardless of washout.
Can pheochromocytomas wash out?
Some can, but lipid-poor pheochromocytoma is rare on non-contrast CT.
Is absolute or relative washout better?
Either threshold can support adenoma diagnosis when met.
Does this replace radiology review?
No. Final diagnosis requires qualified imaging interpretation.