Current Radiographic Iodinated Contrast Agents

Abstract

Millions of radiologic examinations requiring the use of iodinated contrast are performed yearly in North America. Triiodobenzoic acid, the contrast agent molecule currently in use, is a benzene ring covalently bonded to the 3 iodine atoms. Iodinated contrast media can be divided in 4 categories: ionic monomers, ionic dimers, nonionic monomer, and nonionic dimers. Currently, second- and third-generation nonionic low-osmolar and iso-osmolar contrast media are used in clinical practice. The search for a safer and more effective iodinated contrast agents remains an ongoing challenge and important research topic.

Keywords: Computed tomography; Contrast media; Digital subtraction angiography; Iodinated contrast agents; Iodine; Triiodobenzoic acid.