Inflammatory markers increase following exposure to radiographic contrast media

Increased levels of markers of systemic inflammation have been noted in patients following coronary angiographic procedures. The purpose of the present study was to examine the influence of the type of the angiographic procedure as well as the type of radiographic contrast media (RCM) on markers of inflammation.

Thirty-seven patients undergoing diagnostic or interventional coronary angiographic procedures were randomly assigned to receive one of three RCM - an ionic low osmolar agent; a non-ionic, iso-osmotic agent; or a non-ionic, low osmolar agent. Sera were analyzed at baseline (prior to receiving RCM), and at 2, 6 and 24 h thereafter for interleukin (IL)-6 and soluble receptors for tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFalpha)-1 and TNFalpha- 2.

Statistically significant increases over time in each RCM group were noted for IL-6 and both TNFalpha receptors. Comparable increases in inflammatory markers were observed in patients undergoing diagnostic angiography and in patients undergoing an associated coronary intervention. While these markers increased following exposure to both ionic and non-ionic RCM, there was a consistent trend towards lessened marker release with non-ionic RCM.

Both diagnostic and interventional coronary angiographic procedures are associated with an increase in serum inflammatory markers. While both ionic and non-ionic RCM are associated with increases in serum inflammatory markers, this increase may be attenuated with non-ionic RCM.