[Effect of contrast media products on the erythrocyte aggregation and deformability in vitro]

It has been suggested that contrast media could interfere with red blood cell aggregation, hyperosmolar media leading to an inhibition of red blood cell aggregation whereas non ionic products might induce a sludge phenomenon. We present an in vitro study accompanying two contrast media: 1) Ioxitalamate of sodium and meglumin (ionic, hyperosmolar). 2) Iopaminol (non ionic). In their effect on hemorheological parameters of red blood cell aggregation. Blood samples have been obtained from 7 healthy donors. Contrast media have been tested at increased contrast media (O.1, 1, 2, 10, 100 mg/ml of Iodine in final concentration). The following parameters have been studied: hematocrit, fibrinogen level, erythrocyte aggregation using the Erythro-aggregometer*, whole blood viscosity at 3 different shear rates (0.87, 18.74, 118 sec.-1) using Low Shear 30*. Deformability of red blood cell was assessed by ektacytometry. Osmolarity was controlled in each sample. Results show an inhibition effect of both contrasts media on red blood cell aggregation. There is a concomitant decrease of blood viscosity at low shear rates. On the contrary, apparent viscosity increases at high shear rates in parallel with the contrast media concentration. This effect is more pronounced with ioxitalamate above a concentration of 10 mg/ml. Ektacytometric parameters are not modified by contrast media and this could indicate a complete reversibility of the media-induced alteration on red blood cell. In order to precise the prothrombotic effect on contrast media, hemorheological studies have to be completed by the assessment of their effect on hemostatic parameters.