[Hypersensitivity reactions to iodinated contrast media]
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 7, 2026

Basophil Activation Test for Allergy Diagnosis
Published on: May 31, 2021
Evelyne Collet1, Camille Leleu1, Aurélie Grandvuillemin2
1Unité de dermato-allergologie, service de dermatologie, hôpital François-Mitterrand, CHU Dijon Bourgogne, 14, boulevard Gaffarel, 21000 Dijon, France.
Abstract:
More than 75 million iodinated contrast media (ICM) are injected worldwide each year. These molecules cause hypersensitivity reactions in 0.5% to 3% of cases, causing real harm to patients. Reactions to ICM are classified into two groups according to their onset time. Immediate hypersensitivity reactions (less than 1hour after injection) include a variety of skin, respiratory, digestive or hemodynamic clinical signs. The most serious manifestation is anaphylactic shock. Non-immediate hypersensitivity reactions (between 1hour and 7days after injection) mainly present as a maculopapular rash. Severe forms may be observed, such as DRESS (drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms). The diagnosis and management of patients is based on skin testing. Skin tests confirm the involvement of a suspected ICM and guide the choice of an alternative molecule during a provocation test or a re-exposure. In vitro tests have low sensitivity and are used less frequently. Premedication protocols are controversial and their use is limited. Serious hypersensitivity reactions must be investigated in specialized centers after assessing the risk-benefit ratio for the patient.
Related Concept Videos
Radiological Investigation I: X-ray and CT
Hypersensitivity Reactions: Immune-Complex Reactions
Hypersensitivities
Types of Hypersensitivities
Hypersensitivity reactions are categorized into four types: Type 1, Type 2, Type 3, and Type 4. Each type has a distinct mechanism...
Drug Toxicity: Allergic Reactions
Allergic Reactions: Anaphylaxis
Hypersensitivity Reactions: Cytolytic Reactions