Hypersensitivity to contrast medium

A hypersensitivity reaction to contrast medium may occur during or shortly after a scan, usually with itching or hives and rarely with serious breathing or blood pressure problems. Always describe exactly what previous reaction you had; an iodine or shellfish allergy is not the same thing.

• Itching, redness, hives or swelling of the lips and eyelids.
• Sneezing, a runny nose, coughing, wheezing, hoarseness or breathlessness.
• Before every scan, explain what reaction you had, when it began and which agent was used, if you know.
• Bring a photo or report of a previous reaction and ask for the exact substance and reaction to be recorded.
• Tell the referrer and radiology department about a previous reaction well before a planned contrast examination.
• For urgent GP care outside office hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediate threat to life.