An approach to the performance of contrast studies in contrast material-reactive persons.

A method of carrying out contrast studies was considered for use in 124 persons with past histories of adverse reactions to contrast media. High-dosage steroid treatment was given before and during the contrast study to 37 patients with previous rash responses and 9 with prior anaphylactoid reactions; only 3 and 1 patients, respectively, of these groups had mild adverse reactions. Patients with past reactions deemed "vasomotor" underwent contrast study without preparative drug therapy without significant adverse effects. Although uncontrolled, this study suggests a possible protective role of steroids in patients with certain previous reactions to contrast media. We do not wish to imply that this is the only approach that can be used in the kind of patients reported here.