A case of hypertensive crisis following administration of nonionic low molecular weight contrast in hemorrhagic stroke patient: a case report.

Abstract

Introduction: Radiocontrast agents can be iodinated or noniodinated. Iodinated agents are further divided into low and high molecular weights. In recent decades, LOCM has largely replaced the use of HOCM due to safety concerns, but an increasing number of severe side effects cases have been reported.

Case presentation: A 62-year-old woman presented with acute right hemiparesis. A CT scan revealed ICH with IVH. A contrasted CTA was ordered, during which Iohexol was administered. Shortly after the injection, she developed a hypertensive crisis. She was transferred to the ICU, intubated, and given labetalol. Repeated CT scan showed increased IVH with posterior edema. Her family declined surgical intervention. Unfortunately, she died.

Discussion: This represents a unique adverse effect of a low molecular weight contrast agent that has been rarely reported before, particularly in pheochromocytoma patients. Nevertheless, our patient had subtle hypertension that was revealed during hospital admission but without pheochromcytoma.

Conclusion: This case represents an unusual instance of a severe adverse. It suggests that the malignant rise in blood pressure may not be catecholamine-induced.