Dermatológia pre prax 1/2017

Hypersensitivity to iodinated contrast media

Iodinated contrast media (ICM) are introduced into clinical practice at beginning of the twentieth century. Adverse reactions to ICM are not rare and may be caused by toxicity or hypersensitivity reactions. These reactions are generally classified into immediate reactions or delayed reactions. The skin is the most affected organ in both. The diagnosis of ICM hypersensitivity is based on patient´s history, skin tests, in vitro tests and provocation test. The last one is a gold standard for establishing of the diagnosis. Early recognition of adverse reaction is essential for proper treatment. Therefore, the patient should be observed for at least 30 minutes. The therapy of anaphylactic or anaphylactoid reaction consists of pharmacotherapy, oxygen therapy and management of vital functions. Additionally, the value of premedication is considered to be controversial.

Keywords: iodinated contrast media, hypersensitivity, immediate reactions, nonimmediate reactions, diagnosis, treatment