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Effects of radiographic contrast media on the serum complement system
Archives of Toxicology. Supplement. = Archiv Fur Toxikologie. Supplement
|January 1, 1983
Summary
Nonionic contrast media like iopamidol activate the complement system less than ionic agents. This suggests a reduced risk of anaphylactoid reactions during radiological procedures.
Area of Science:
- Radiology and Imaging
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Contrast media are essential for radiographic examinations.
- Iodinated contrast agents can activate the complement system.
- Anaphylactoid reactions are a potential risk associated with contrast media.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the complement system activation by the nonionic organic iodine compound, iopamidol.
- To compare iopamidol's complement activation with established ionic contrast media and another nonionic agent.
- To assess the potential for reduced anaphylactoid reactions with nonionic contrast media.
Main Methods:
- In vitro study using an immunohemolytic detector system.
- Goat erythrocytes sensitized with hemolysin were used as the immune complex.
- Complement (C') was supplied by guinea pig serum.
Main Results:
- All tested contrast media, both ionic and nonionic, activated the complement system.
- Nonionic contrast media, including iopamidol, demonstrated significantly less complement activation compared to traditional ionic agents.
- Metrizamide, another nonionic agent, also showed reduced complement activation.
Conclusions:
- Nonionic contrast media exhibit a lower potential for complement system activation than ionic contrast media.
- The use of nonionic contrast agents may reduce the risk of anaphylactoid reactions in radiological procedures involving intravascular injection.
- Iopamidol represents a potentially safer alternative for radiographic examinations requiring contrast enhancement.