Management and Prevention of Hypersensitivity Reactions to Radiocontrast Media: A Consensus Statement From the American College of Radiology and the AAAAI

Abstract

Intravenous iodinated contrast media (ICM) is widely used in the United States, and it is imperative to provide guidance on the management of adverse reactions to ICM as well as the preparation, planning, and potential premedication for patients with previous reactions. Currently there is a discordance between the American College of Radiology Contrast Manual, which recommends premedication to prevent repeat hypersensitivity reactions to ICM, and the Anaphylaxis 2020 Practice Parameters Update, which recommends against routine administration of glucocorticoids and/or antihistamines to prevent anaphylaxis with prior ICM hypersensitivity reactions. A task force of experts from radiology who are also members of the American College of Radiology Committee on Drugs and Contrast Media and expert allergists/immunologists including members of the Adverse Reactions to Drugs, Biologics and Latex Committee of American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology evaluated the scientific evidence to develop consensus recommendations that are endorsed by both organizations. The task force took into account the strength of evidence and balanced the potential risks of recurrent reactions with those of premedication and product avoidance when making these recommendations to improve and standardize the care of patients who experience or have a history of reaction to ICM.

Keywords: Anaphylaxis; Contrast allergy; Contrast hypersensitivity; Contrast reaction; Contrast skin testing; Contrast switching; Delayed contrast reaction; Immediate contrast reaction; Iodinated contrast allergy; Iodinated contrast hypersensitivity.