[Recurrence of drug eruption after renewed injection of iodinated contrast medium in patients with known allergic contraindications]

Background: Iodinated contrast media (ICM) are used extensively by both radiologists and cardiologists. Injection of such products can induce immediate hypersensitivity reactions, some of which are IgE-mediated, and delayed hypersensitivity reaction with all types of drug eruptions being reported. Allergy tests, whether patch-tests or intradermal tests, are useful to confirm whether patients are allergic. At the end of these tests, depending on the reaction (chronology and clinical symptoms) and the results of the skin tests, patients are given an allergy card as well as a detailed certificate indicating the various ICM contraindicated and those allowed.

Observations: We report herein three cases of patients experiencing a confirmed allergic eruption after injection of ICM, and whose recommendations and contraindication were not taken into consideration, leading to recurrence of eruption after renewed ICM injection.

Discussion: The three cases we report herein underscore the lack of knowledge concerning eruptions induced by ICM, particularly among radiologists. Better dissemination of information about the existence of such reactions appears necessary amongst the medical professionals concerned.