Intolerance to iodine-containing contrast media

The incidence of contrast media reactions ranges from 4 to 8%. Age between 20 and 50 years, atopy, previous reactions to contrast media, intravenous injection of an hyper-osmolar media and stress are the major risk factors. Even if the pathophysiological basis remains largely unknown it seems that these reactions involve the complement system, histamine release from mastocysts and basophils, inflammation mediators including the kinines system and vascular endothelium damage. The use hypo-osmolar media, corticosteroids and antihistaminic drugs reduce the risk of adverse reactions. (authors)