Severe allergic-like contrast reactions: epidemiology and appropriate treatment

Abdom Radiol (NY). 2016 Aug;41(8):1632-9. doi: 10.1007/s00261-016-0723-x.

Abstract

Epinephrine is the most important treatment for severe allergic-like contrast reactions. The signs and symptoms of a severe reaction and the dose and methods of epinephrine administration are important for all radiologists to master. In this review article, we review the epidemiology of severe allergic-like contrast reactions, their common clinical manifestations, and their appropriate treatment, with a focus on correct epinephrine administration. We also discuss systematic limitations in the training of current and future radiologists, and recommend strategies for improvement.

Keywords: Contrast media; Contrast reaction; Severe allergiclike reaction; Severe contrast reaction; Severe contrast reaction epidemiology; Severe contrast reaction treatment.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adrenergic alpha-Agonists / administration & dosage
  • Adrenergic alpha-Agonists / therapeutic use*
  • Contrast Media / adverse effects*
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Drug Administration Routes
  • Drug Hypersensitivity / diagnosis
  • Drug Hypersensitivity / drug therapy*
  • Drug Hypersensitivity / epidemiology*
  • Epinephrine / administration & dosage
  • Epinephrine / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Risk Factors

Substances

  • Adrenergic alpha-Agonists
  • Contrast Media
  • Epinephrine