Dinio, John Dominique P

BSRT III
RAD . CONTRAST
Iodinated Contrast
Iodinated contrast is a form of intravenous radiocontrast agent (radiographic dye)
containing iodine, which enhances the visibility of vascular structures and organs
during radiographic procedures. Some pathologies, such as cancer, have particularly improved
visibility with iodinated contrast.

TYPES
Iodine-based contrast media are usually classified as ionic or non-ionic. Both types are used
most commonly in radiology due to their relatively harmless interaction with the body and its
solubility. Contrast media are primarily used to visualize vessels and changes in tissues on
radiography and CT. Contrast media can also be used for tests of the urinary tract, uterus and
fallopian tubes. It may cause the patient to feel as if they have had urinary incontinence. It also puts
a metallic taste in the mouth of the patient.
The iodine may be bound either in an organic (non-ionic) compound or an ionic compound.
Ionic agents were developed first and are still in widespread use depending on the requirements, but
may result in additional complications. Organic agents which covalently bind the iodine have fewer
side effects as they do not dissociate into component molecules. Many of the side effects are due to
the hyperosmolar solution being injected. i.e. they deliver more iodine atoms per molecule. The more
iodine, the more "dense" the X-ray effect.
Organic iodine molecules used for contrast include iohexol, iodixanol, and ioversol. Iodine-
based contrast media used nowadays are water-soluble. These contrast agents are sold as clear,
colorless water solutions, with the concentration usually expressed as mg I/ml. Modern iodinated
contrast agents can be used almost anywhere in the body. Most often they are used intravenously,
but for various purposes they can also be used intra-arterially, intrathecally (as in diskography of the
spine) and intra-abdominally – just about any body cavity or potential space.
Iodine contrast agents are used for the following:

 Contrast CTs
 Angiography (arterial investigations)
 Venography (venous investigations)
 VCUG (voiding cystourethrography)
 HSG (hysterosalpingogram)
 IVU (intravenous urography)

Iodinated contrast media are among the most commonly used injectables in radiology today.
Modern iodinated contrast agents can be used almost anywhere in the body. Most often they are
used intravenously but can be administered intraarterially, intrathecally, and intraabdominally. They
are usually safe, and adverse effects are generally mild and self-limiting. Nonetheless, severe or life-
threatening reactions can occur.

Radiologists and other medical personnel involved with the use of iodinated contrast agents
must be aware of the risk factors for reactions to contrast media. They should be aware of and use
strategies to minimize adverse events and be prepared to promptly recognize and manage them