Treatment of the adverse effects of contrast media.
Although low-osmolar contrast media are relatively safe, a moderate non-life-threatening reaction requiring some treatment does occur in 0.2-0.4% of patients. A severe life-threatening reaction can be expected in 0.04% of patients. Prompt recognition and treatment are invaluable in blunting the adverse response of a patient to radiographic contrast material and may prevent the reaction from becoming severe or even life-threatening. Radiologists and their staff should review treatment protocols regularly so that each can play his/her role efficiently. Knowledge, training, and preparation are crucial for guaranteeing appropriate and effective therapy in the event of an adverse contrast-related event. On the basis of a review of the literature, we suggest a treatment protocol.
Thomsen
H S
HS
Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Copenhagen University Hospital at Herlev, Denmark.
Bush
W H
WH
D000140:Acidosis, Lactic / Q000517:prevention & control; D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000707:Anaphylaxis / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000628:therapy*; D003287:Contrast Media / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004837:Epinephrine / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006634:Histamine H1 Antagonists / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D007674:Kidney Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000517:prevention & control
D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones; D003287:Contrast Media; D006634:Histamine H1 Antagonists; D004837:Epinephrine