[The distribution of the intravascularly applied contrast medium diatrizoate in the cerebrospinal fluid]

The examination of 2 so-called minipigs and 5 patients with respect to the distribution of intravenously applied Diatrizoate into the cerebrospinal fluid yielded the proof of a high blood-cerebrospinal gradient. After the establishment of the relative flow balance about 60 to 120 minutes after the injection, the concentration of the contrast medium in the cerebrospinal fluid reaches 1.0 to 1.5 per cent the blood level. This dose-dependent value is exceeded in case of a disturbed blood-brain barrier. Thus the neurotoxicity of this contrast medium gains special importance.