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Published on: April 18, 2013
Adverse reactions to iodinated contrast media
Wendy Bottinor1, Pritam Polkampally2, Ion Jovin3
1Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University Health System, Richmond, Virginia.
Adverse reactions to iodinated contrast media (ICM) are a concern in millions of procedures. While newer formulations reduce risks, clinical vigilance and prompt management remain crucial for patient safety.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Pharmacology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Iodinated contrast media (ICM) have been used since the 1920s for angiography.
- Over 75 million procedures requiring ICM are performed globally each year.
- Understanding adverse reactions to ICM is critical due to their widespread use.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current literature on adverse reactions to ICM.
- To provide insights into the pathogenesis, clinical presentation, and management of these reactions.
- To discuss prevention strategies and the role of pretreatment.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies on ICM adverse reactions.
- Analysis of data on risk factors, pathogenesis, and clinical outcomes.
- Synthesis of information on diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
Main Results:
- Adverse reactions to ICM can range in severity.
- Nonionic, low-osmolality ICM formulations have a lower risk profile than older ionic, high-osmolality agents.
- No pretreatment protocol guarantees the complete elimination of repeat reactions.
Conclusions:
- Clinical alertness and early recognition are paramount for managing ICM reactions.
- Effective management requires understanding the underlying pathogenesis and clinical presentation.
- Ongoing research and vigilance are necessary to improve patient safety with ICM use.
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