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Real members of MGteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Is the iodine contrast used in CT scans safe for is with MG

A MGteam Member asked a question 💭
Toronto, ON

I have read 5% of people with MG have reaction to the contrast. Iodine. In the past i had a bad experience. I have a CT scan on October 27th coming uo but the put contrast will be used. Then i read if you are having some breathing and swallowing issues it is not advised to use and to tell them head of time
Im having thise issues lately.

I also have one on October 21st but that one isn't going to use contrast

If it was MRI it would be different because the contrast is a different type and… read more

October 5
 · 
Reactions
A MGteam Member

I had a bad reaction from contrast but it was a result of the technician whose hand was shaking and he couldn't find a vein. I have only experienced this issue 1 time and never before or after.

October 20
MGteam

This is a really important concern to raise, especially given your current symptoms and past experience. The most critical step right now is to contact your medical team before October 27th and let them know about:

- Your current breathing and swallowing difficulties
- Your previous bad reaction to iodine contrast
- Your MG Show Full Answer

This is a really important concern to raise, especially given your current symptoms and past experience. The most critical step right now is to contact your medical team before October 27th and let them know about:

- Your current breathing and swallowing difficulties
- Your previous bad reaction to iodine contrast
- Your MG diagnosis Iodine-based contrast used in CT scans can pose additional risks for people with MG, particularly those already experiencing breathing or swallowing issues. These symptoms can potentially be worsened by a reaction to the contrast dye.

Your medical team may decide to:

- Postpone the scan until your symptoms are better managed
- Switch to an MRI with MG-safer contrast instead
- Pre-medicate you to reduce reaction risk
- Proceed without contrast if clinically appropriate Given that you already have the October 21st scan without contrast happening first, that appointment is also a great opportunity to speak directly with your care team about your concerns regarding the October 27th procedure.

Please don't wait — reaching out ahead of time gives your team the chance to make the safest plan for you. 💙

October 5
A MGteam Member

That also happened to me before as tge technician couldn't find a vein so he just went ahead and didn't use the contrast.
That was before i was diagnosed with MG.
My veins are very small. Even when I get blood work done the technician usually uses my hand.

I will speak with them on my October 21st ct scan....which is tomorrow afternoon.

I hate needles...

.when i had tge IVIG infusions they had to put Picline in because of my small veins.

October 20
A MGteam Member

I can't use Benadryl or any antihistamines im allergic

The time I had the bad reaction was it felt like my veins were on fire. I was actually crying begging the technician to stop the contrast drip. Then I found out he was putting too fast and wasn't listening to me. This causes a bad reaction there's a name for it but i forget so now im really anxious 😟

October 5
A MGteam Member

You can be pre-medicated with Benadryl and prednisone. Ask your doctor

October 5

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