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Comparison of intravenous contrast agents for CT studies in children

M D Cohen1, E Herman, D Herron

  • 1Department of Radiology, Riley Hospital for Children, Indiana University Medical Center, Indianapolis.

Acta Radiologica (Stockholm, Sweden : 1987)
|November 1, 1992
PubMed

Insights

Low osmolarity contrast agents like iohexol and iopamidol are recommended for pediatric CT scans. Meglumine diatrizoate caused significantly more side effects, potentially impacting image quality in children.

Area of Science:

  • Radiology
  • Pediatric Imaging
  • Medical Contrast Agents

Background:

  • Intravenous (IV) contrast agents are crucial for CT examinations.
  • Traditional ionic contrast agents can cause adverse reactions.
  • Minimizing side effects is essential for pediatric patient comfort and image quality.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare the incidence of side effects of different IV contrast agents in children undergoing CT.
  • To evaluate the impact of contrast agent side effects on pediatric CT imaging.
  • To determine the optimal contrast agent for pediatric CT examinations.

Main Methods:

  • A randomized controlled trial involving 180 pediatric patients undergoing CT.
  • Comparison of three IV contrast agents: meglumine diatrizoate (high osmolarity), iohexol (low osmolarity), and iopamidol (low osmolarity).
  • Monitoring and recording of all minor side effects experienced by patients.

Main Results:

  • Meglumine diatrizoate resulted in a high incidence of minor side effects (85%).
  • Iohexol showed a significantly lower incidence of side effects (18%), followed by iopamidol (36%).
  • Minor side effects can lead to patient motion and delayed scanning, potentially degrading CT image quality.

Conclusions:

  • Low osmolarity contrast agents (iohexol, iopamidol) are associated with fewer side effects in pediatric CT.
  • Reducing side effects with appropriate contrast agent selection can improve pediatric CT image quality.
  • Low osmolarity agents are recommended for IV use in pediatric CT imaging.

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