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Case Reports
. 2019 Dec 1;12(11):e229717.
doi: 10.1136/bcr-2019-229717.

A case of contrast-induced encephalopathy

Patrick Neilan  1 , Daniel Urbine  2
Affiliations
Case Reports

A case of contrast-induced encephalopathy

Patrick Neilan et al. BMJ Case Rep. .

Abstract

The differential diagnosis of the patient with encephalopathy is broad and remains a common yet challenging problem for critical care physicians. A case is presented of contrast-induced encephalopathy in an 81-year-old man undergoing a left heart catheterisation after receiving iopamidol, a low-osmolar contrast agent. Immediately after receiving contrast, our patient experienced severe headache, agitation, altered mentation and significant skin hypersensitivity. This rare, acute and reversible neurological disturbance can be associated with administration of intra-arterial, osmotic, iodinated contrast. Although uncommon, it is important to recognise the various presentations, risk factors and treatment of this condition.

Keywords: adult intensive care; headache (including migraines); intensive care; neurology; neurology (drugs And Medicines).

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Conflict of interest statement

Competing interests: None declared.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
CT of the patient demonstrating increased density of the falx and tentorium corresponding to recent contrast administration.
Figure 2
Figure 2
MRI of the patient demonstrating age-related changes.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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