The effect of iodinized contrast media upon blood proteins, electrolytes, and red cells

Abstract

The following observations are made while investigating the mechanisms involved in the production of side effects associated with the use of water soluble iodinized contrast media. The electrophoretic mobilities of blood proteins are altered, showing an increase of protein in the gamma globulin area and a decrease of alpha and beta globulin and the albumin peaks. The degree of these changes varied directly with the amount of contrast media present. Some of the protein migrated with the contrast medium and was probably attached to it. Decreases in the combined serum calcium and magnesium levels ranging from 0.8 to 1.6 mEq. per liter are demonstrated by EDTA titration in blood samples collected during carotid arteriography from the jugular bulb of 10 patients. Clumps of red cells formed on contact of blood with contrast medium. Clump formation was enhanced by agitation of the blood and contrast medium mixture, and variations in the degree of clumping from individual to individual are noted. In the rat, these clumps cause permanent obstruction of small mesenteric arteries. Possible relationships between these observations and the various side effects of contrast media are discussed.