The administration of contrast agents is an essential part of many diagnostic imaging procedures. The use of such agents can dramatically improve the visibility and characterization of many pathological issues.

Knowledge, familiarity, and practice are crucial for an appropriate and effective use of contrast and the response to adverse events when they occur. Therefore, it is vital for radiologists to understand the agents they inject, the contra-indications for injection, and any potential associated risks, in order to act and react accordingly in a timely manner.

Furthermore, the spread of infections through the use of contrast has also been a growing concern. Costly medications and severe drug shortages have encouraged the inappropriate reuse of single-dose vials which has led to serious and fatal infections. A thorough understanding of infection control best practices is needed to ensure the safety of patients undergoing diagnostic imaging.

Objectives

• Review the major categories of contrast
• Identify FDA-approved gadolinium-based contrast agents and their mechanisms of action
• Review the evidence describing gadolinium retention in the body
• Evaluate the safety of gadolinium-based contrast to determine the risk/benefit in an individual patient
• Apply recent guidelines and recommendations for the management of patients who require the use of Contrast
• Describe the critical need for infection control when administering contrast
• Discuss the recommendations and benefits of single-dose vials and prefilled syringes in reducing infections
• Know appropriate steps to follow when an adverse reaction occurs