Adverse delayed reactions to the intravenous injection of non—ionic iodinated contrast media

Abstract

AbstractAdverse delayed reactions (ADRs) to the intravenous injection of non‐ionic iodinated contrast media (NICM) were first recognised in the mid‐1980s and a growing number of articles in the literature have described such reactions as increasingly common. The aim of this article is to increase the understanding of the risk factors, frequency, signs and symptoms of ADRs amongst healthcare staff especially radiographers, nurses, radiologists and physicians who regularly use contrast media (CM). A literature review of multiple studies assessing ADRs performed from 1990–2010 has revealed various misconceptions, particularly in the frequency of ADRs and the influence of ethnic background most likely due to methodological limitations. Therefore, the use of improved research methods and design has the potential to increase our knowledge in this area. Furthermore, new areas of study such as blood testing as a screening tool can assist in risk assessment and prevention of ADRs.