Transient contrast induced neurotoxicity after coronary angiography: A contrast re-challenge case

Pak J Med Sci. 2020 Jul-Aug;36(5):1140-1142. doi: 10.12669/pjms.36.5.2688.

Abstract

Contrast induced neurotoxicity (CIN) is a rare complication of cardiac catheterization and re-exposure to contrast medium carries the risk of recurrent CIN. We report a case of successful contrast re-challenge in a 60-year-old female patient who developed CIN after her first procedure of coronary angiography (CAG) which resulted in symptoms of disorientation, amnesia and cortical blindness. A non-contrast enhanced CT performed four hours after the CAG was normal, however, her MRI brain scan showed scattered tiny hyper intensities in posterior occipito-temporal and parietal regions suggesting CIN. Patient's symptoms resolved completely after 72 hours. Two months later, because of persistent exertional angina, patient was successfully re-challenged with lesser amount of contrast medium with administration of hydrocortisone prior to procedure, and PCI to LAD was completed without recurrence of CIN.

Keywords: Cardiac catheterization; Contrast induced neurotoxicity; Contrast re-challenge; MRI brain.

Publication types

  • Case Reports