imaging circulatory disturbances

Question 1

what are the ideal properties of a contrast in radiology?

Answer 1

HAS AN ATTENUATION COMPARABLE TO SURROUNDING SOFT TISSUES.
INEXPENSIVE
INERT (stable)
EQUAL DISTRIBUTION IN AND OUT OF SELECTED BODY COMPARTMENTS
PAINLESS
EASE OF USE

Question 2

iodine is the most common contrast, what are some of the problems with iodinated contrast?

Answer 2

MAJOR ALLERGIC REACTIONS
RENAL DYSFUNCTION (most common problem)
DISTURBANCE OF THRYOID METABOLISM
DISTURBANCE OF CLOTTING MECHANISM
SEIZURES
PULMONARY OEDEMA

Question 3

what is an important consideration for diabetic patients when administering contrast?

Answer 3

if they are on metformin, consider withholding dose after administration of contrast agent 24-48 hours after

RARE COMPLICATION IN WHICH CONTRAST CAUSES RENAL FAILURE – CONTINUOUS CONSUMPTION OF MEDICATION WILL RESULT IN LACTIC ACIDOSIS!

Question 4

what are considerations to take into account before using contrast

Answer 4

ANY PREVIOUS CONTRAST ALLERGIES.
ASTHMA/ATOPY
POOR RENAL FUNCTION
DIABETICS (on metformin)