Case Report

Contrast-Induced Encephalopathy Following Coronary Angioplasty with Iohexol

Authors: Raja A. Sawaya, MD, Ramadan Hammoud, MD, Samir Arnaout, MD, Samir Alam, MD

Abstract

Abstract: We report a case of a patient who developed acute encephalopathy following coronary angioplasty with iohexol contrast. The patient's clinical condition was associated with slowing on the EEG. Studies did not reveal any other etiology or contributing cause for the encephalopathy. The patient recovered spontaneously in 24 hours with only supportive measures. This report suggests that such a drug reaction could occur with iohexol injected in the coronaries, but reassures that the encephalopathy is self limiting.


Key Points


* Contrast-induced encephalopathy can occur following intravenous injection of iohexol during cardiac catheterization.


* Contrast-induced encephalopathy with iohexol is spontaneously reversible.


* Blood studies and imaging of the brain are normal in contrast-induced encephalopathy with iohexol.


* Contrast-induced encephalopathy occurs possibly secondary to seepage of contrast through the blood brain barrier.

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