Antibacterial effects of metrizoate and metrizamide on bacterial growth in vitro

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Radiology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Urinary tract radiography often utilizes radiocontrast media.
• Potential effects of these media on urinary pathogens require investigation.
• Accurate bacterial culture is crucial for diagnosing urinary tract infections.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the in vitro effects of Isopaque and Amipaque on urinary pathogens.
• To determine if these contrast agents interfere with bacterial culturing from urine samples.

Main Methods:

• Urinary pathogens were exposed in vitro to Isopaque and Amipaque.
• Contrast media were used in concentrations of 100 mg I/ml and 260 mg I/ml.
• Bacterial growth and viability were assessed.

Main Results:

• Both contrast media exhibited slight or negligible bacteriostatic effects at higher concentrations (260 mg I/ml) on some bacteria.
• No bactericidal effects were observed for either contrast agent.
• The presence of Isopaque or Amipaque did not prevent bacterial culturing.

Conclusions:

• Radiocontrast agents Isopaque and Amipaque, at the tested concentrations, do not significantly inhibit or kill urinary pathogens.
• Urinary tract radiography using these contrast media is compatible with subsequent bacterial culturing of urine samples.
• Clinical practice can proceed with confidence in the accuracy of urine cultures following radiography with these agents.