IV contrast in sickle cell

Q: Intravenous iodinated contrast can induce sickle crisis in patients with sickle cell disease? (select one)

A) True
B) False


Answer:  B

It has been speculated in the past that IV iodinated contrast is not safe for sickle cell patients but this fear is proved to be unfounded. This was postulated that IV iodinated contrast contrast because of their high osmolality may cause osmotic shrinkage of red blood cells, and may precipitate a sickle cell crisis. Studies have shown that clinically this is not significant and risk is equivalent to general population if renal function is normal.

#radiology
#allergy


References:

1. Morcos SK. Review article: Acute serious and fatal reactions to contrast media: our current understanding. Br J Radiol 2005; 78:686. 

2. Kimberly L. et.al. Safety of Iodinated Intravenous Contrast Medium Administration in Sickle Cell Disease - The American Journal of Medicine Volume 125, Issue 1, January 2012, Pages 100.e11-100.e16