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Allergic-like contrast media reaction management in children

Pediatric Radiology volume 48, pages 1688–1694 (2018)Cite this article

Abstract

The use of contrast materials as part of imaging examinations is common in children of all ages, as these compounds increase image contrast, lesion detection and lesion characterization. Though modern iodinated, gadolinium-based and ultrasound microbubble contrast materials generally are quite safe, acute physiological and allergic-like reactions are possible. The majority of acute contrast reactions in children are mild and self-limited; however, life-threatening reactions can occur. It is our obligation as radiologists to recognize and manage these adverse reactions. The objective of this article is to review the frequency, manifestations and appropriate treatment of acute contrast reactions in the pediatric population.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Radiology, ML 5031, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave., Suite BR.176, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA

    Jonathan R. Dillman & Andrew T. Trout

  2. Department of Radiology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA

    Jonathan R. Dillman & Andrew T. Trout

  3. Department of Radiology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA

    Matthew S. Davenport

Authors
  1. Jonathan R. Dillman
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  2. Andrew T. Trout
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  3. Matthew S. Davenport
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Jonathan R. Dillman.

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Conflicts of interest

Drs. Dillman and Trout receive funding from Guerbet regarding clinical trial design. Dr. Dillman also receives funding from Bracco Diagnostics related to contrast-enhanced ultrasound. Dr. Davenport has no disclosures.

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Dillman, J.R., Trout, A.T. & Davenport, M.S. Allergic-like contrast media reaction management in children. Pediatr Radiol 48, 1688–1694 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00247-018-4241-6

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00247-018-4241-6

Keywords

  • Allergic-like reaction
  • Anaphylactoid reaction
  • Children
  • Contrast material
  • Contrast reaction
  • Treatment