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Hypersensitivity reactions after barium enema examination.
AJR. American Journal of Roentgenology
|July 1, 1984
Summary
Urticaria, a skin reaction, can occur after barium enema procedures. Methylparaben, a barium mixture preservative, is identified as a likely allergen in one case.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Allergology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Air-contrast barium enema is a common diagnostic imaging procedure for the colon.
- Adverse reactions to barium contrast media are rare.
- Urticaria is a common allergic skin reaction characterized by transient wheals and itching.
Observation:
- Three patients presented with urticaria developing shortly after undergoing air-contrast barium enema.
- A review of medical literature revealed only one previously reported similar case.
- One patient exhibited a positive prick skin test specifically to methylparaben.
Findings:
- Methylparaben, identified as a preservative in the barium mixture, is implicated as the causative allergen.
- The findings suggest methylparaben in barium contrast preparations can trigger allergic urticaria.
- This case report highlights a potential, albeit rare, adverse reaction to barium enema.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider allergic reactions to barium additives, such as methylparaben, in patients developing urticaria post-procedure.
- Further investigation into the allergenicity of barium contrast media components may be warranted.
- Awareness of this potential adverse effect can aid in prompt diagnosis and management of post-procedural urticaria.