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Contrast Agent Use and Safety in Pediatric Patients

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Medical Imaging Contrast Agents: A Clinical Manual

Abstract

In pediatric patients, most widely used imaging tools are ultrasonography, magnetic resonance imaging, fluoroscopy, and computed tomography, respectively. Each of these modalities requires contrast materials compatible with the modality and imaging goal. Nevertheless, all available contrast agents have some disadvantages. One should keep in mind that the children are not small adults and they are more vulnerable regarding the adverse effects of contrast material administration. Multiple parameters such as laboratory test results and coexisting diseases should be considered while utilizing contrast materials. Parameters such as creatinine change with the body weight and age, and this need to be kept in mind while evaluating the renal and hepatic functions of the patients. Contrast agent-dependent osmotic load has a more dramatic effect in pediatric patients compared to adults. A low osmolality contrast agent may mean a high osmolality for pediatric patients. Herein, we review the features, adverse effects, and indications of contrast agents in pediatric radiology practice.

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Özmen, E., Erturk, S.M. (2021). Contrast Agent Use and Safety in Pediatric Patients. In: Erturk, S.M., Ros, P.R., Ichikawa, T., Saylisoy, S. (eds) Medical Imaging Contrast Agents: A Clinical Manual. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-79256-5_20

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-79256-5_20

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