Short-term effects of coronary angiographic contrast agents on thyroid function.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the effect of two iodine-containing contrast agents used for coronary angiography on subsequent thyroid hormone concentrations.


METHODS
We prospectively studied thyroid function in 56 patients, with no previous history of thyroid disease and normal findings on thyroid examinations, who underwent nonemergent cardiac catheterization. Thyroid hormone concentrations were assessed at baseline and at day 1 and day 7 after administration of a radiographic iodinated contrast agent (Renografin or Omnipaque).


RESULTS
Use of Omnipaque and Renografin was not associated with significant changes in thyroid-stimulating hormone, total thyroxine, triiodothyronine resin uptake, free thyroxine index, or total triiodothyronine. Three patients had slightly increased thyroid-stimulating hormone concentrations at 7 days after angiography.


CONCLUSIONS
Administration of iodinated contrast agents for cardiac catheterization does not result in hyperthyroidism in patients with previously normal findings on thyroid examination.
Koroscil
T M
TM
Department of Endocrinology, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Medical Center, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio 45433-5529, USA.
Pelletier
P R
PR
Slauson
J W
JW
Hennessey
J
J