Is the safety of contrast agents an issue in body computed tomography?

Abstract

Rationale and objectives: To investigate the comparative safety profiles of nonionic and ionic contrast agents in body computed tomography (CT) studies.

Methods: A literature search was conducted to examine the following variables: image quality, repeat or aborted studies, and the cost of nonionic agents versus benefits. Data are presented that address the following questions: Does administering nonionic agents save time? Are nonionic agents more likely to provide an adequate study? Does an adequate study necessarily ensure an improved detection rate?

Results: The administration of nonionic contrast does not save time during the body CT studies. There is little significant difference between the sensitivity for making a diagnosis when using an ionic or nonionic agent.

Conclusion: The lack of difference in diagnostic sensitivity or time to perform a study between ionic and nonionic agents does not warrant the conversion to nonionic agents in body CT.