The influence on thyroid function of two iodine-containing radiological contrast media

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Radiology
• Nuclear Medicine

Background:

• Iodine-containing contrast media are frequently used in diagnostic imaging.
• Potential effects on thyroid function warrant investigation due to the iodine content.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of ioxaglate and diatrizoate on plasma iodide and thyroid hormones.
• To assess changes in thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels post-administration.

Main Methods:

• Plasma iodide, T4, T3, rT3, FT41, and TSH were measured in 20 subjects.
• Measurements were taken 2, 8, and 30 days after contrast media administration.
• 131I uptake was assessed before and 30 days after administration.

Main Results:

• Plasma iodide levels were elevated for up to 30 days post-diatrizoate and 8 days post-ioxaglate.
• Minor, transient changes were observed in T3, rT3, T4, and FT41 levels.
• Radioactive iodine uptake remained suppressed 30 days after contrast media administration.

Conclusions:

• Ioxaglate and diatrizoate cause statistically significant but clinically minor variations in thyroid hormone parameters.
• The observed thyroid function alterations are temporary and unlikely to be of major clinical concern.