Spectrum of medication-induced complications in the abdomen: role of cross-sectional imaging

AJR Am J Roentgenol. 2011 Aug;197(2):W286-94. doi: 10.2214/AJR.10.5415.

Abstract

Objective: This article provides a comprehensive review of the role of MDCT and MRI in the diagnosis of drug-induced complications in the abdomen and pelvis in adults. A systematic organ-based review of these complications is presented, including but not limited to hepatic changes after chemotherapy, renal complications such as tumor lysis syndrome and lithium nephropathy, gastrointestinal manifestations, various opportunistic infections and secondary neoplasms, mycotic aortic aneurysm from intravesical bacille Calmette-Guérin, complications of anticoagulant therapy, and oral contraceptives.

Conclusion: Advancements in imaging have led to recognition of radiologic features of previously unsuspected diseases. Occasionally, imaging may also identify effects of treatments instituted for these diseases. Consequently, imaging plays a critical role in the accurate diagnosis of a broad spectrum of drug-induced complications in the abdomen, both in emergent and nonemergent settings. Knowledge of the natural history, clinical manifestations, and salient imaging features of these entities is crucial to facilitate accurate clinical diagnosis in a timely fashion.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Contrast Media
  • Digestive System Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Digestive System Diseases / diagnostic imaging
  • Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions*
  • Female
  • Female Urogenital Diseases / chemically induced*
  • Female Urogenital Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Female Urogenital Diseases / diagnostic imaging
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods*
  • Male
  • Male Urogenital Diseases / chemically induced*
  • Male Urogenital Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Male Urogenital Diseases / diagnostic imaging
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed / methods*
  • Vascular Diseases / chemically induced*
  • Vascular Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Vascular Diseases / diagnostic imaging

Substances

  • Contrast Media