Jodkontrastmedel

Jodkontrastmedel are a class of diagnostic agents used in medical imaging. They are administered to patients to enhance the visibility of internal structures during X-ray based procedures such as computed tomography (CT) scans and conventional radiography. The primary component of these agents is iodine, a chemical element with a high atomic number. This high atomic number allows iodine to absorb X-rays effectively, making tissues or organs that contain it appear opaque or brighter on an image.

These contrast agents are typically administered intravenously, orally, or intra-articularly depending on the specific examination. Once in the body, they distribute to different organs and blood vessels, outlining them for better visualization. Common applications include imaging the urinary tract, blood vessels (angiography), the gastrointestinal tract, and joints.

While generally safe, iodine-based contrast media can cause adverse reactions in some individuals. These reactions can range from mild symptoms like nausea and hives to more severe, albeit rare, allergic-type reactions and kidney damage. Patients with pre-existing conditions, such as severe kidney disease or iodine allergy, are at higher risk. Medical professionals carefully assess patient history and kidney function before administration to minimize these risks. The development of newer, low-osmolar and iso-osmolar contrast agents has significantly reduced the incidence and severity of adverse reactions compared to older, high-osmolar agents.