From the Research
Computed Tomography (CT) Contrast Agent and Bronchospasm
- Computed Tomography (CT) contrast agents can cause bronchospasm in some patients, particularly those with a history of asthma or allergies 1, 2, 3.
- The risk of bronchospasm is higher in patients with uncontrolled asthma or those with a high degree of bronchial hyperreactivity 2, 3.
- Certain contrast agents, such as ioxaglate, may be more likely to cause bronchospasm than others 4.
Treatment and Prevention of Bronchospasm
- Pre-treatment with antihistamines, endothelin antagonists, or corticosteroids may not be effective in preventing bronchospasm caused by CT contrast agents 4.
- Accurate clinical and functional evaluation of patients with asthma or allergies is necessary to assess the risk of bronchospasm before administering CT contrast agents 2, 3.
- A stepwise preventive pharmacological approach may be necessary to reduce the risk of bronchospasm in patients with asthma or allergies undergoing CT scans with contrast agents 2.
- Optimal control of asthma symptoms and airway reactivity is crucial in reducing the risk of bronchospasm in patients undergoing CT scans with contrast agents 2, 3.
Risk Factors for Adverse Reactions
- Prior adverse reaction to contrast agents, urticaria, allergic history to drugs other than contrast agents, contrast agent concentration >70%, age <50 years, and total contrast agent dose >65 g are significant predictors of acute adverse reactions to CT contrast agents 5.