What diagnostic testing options are available for a patient allergic to CT contrast dye?
An MRI with contrast could be done, but that uses Gadolinium which can have some side effects, so you probably would want to avoid that too- there have been some discussions about the effects of this if you want to search for that.
A doppler ultrasound can be done to check the blood flow, it’s not always that accurate bit could be a good starting point, and can easily be done dynamically if you have symptoms in certain head positions. Dr Hepworth in CO, US, uses this at times for assessment. There’s info about his protocol in this discussion, which might be helpful if you wanted to try & find a radiologist to do this:
Dr. Hepworth’s protocol for CTV - General - Living with Eagle
The standard CT without contrast, especially the axial view, shows how close the styloids are to the C1 vertebra which is where IJV compression often occurs, so if that gap is small it’s likely there’s vascular compression even if you can’t see the veins- that alongside symptoms should give a knowledgeable doctor an idea. If you think it’s more likely to be carotid artery compression , the internal carotid artery is next to the IJVs, so this is possible if there’s a small gap too, but not always…
According to AI, there is also Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (microbubbles)
There’s also a specialised option: contrast-enhanced ultrasound using tiny gas-filled microbubbles, injected into a vein.[1] They reflect ultrasound strongly, improving views of blood flow in organs like the liver, kidneys and heart — and they use no radiation and dissolve within minutes. Because they don’t affect the kidneys, they’re a useful option for people with kidney failure or allergies to CT/MRI contrast.[ But I’ve never heard of that being done & I don’t know if it’s possible for the head & neck!
Have you had a CT w/o contrast?
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Thank you @Jules . This is so helpful. I’ve had gandolinium contrast for MRI in the past without issue, but I’d rather avoid it if possible. I never heard of doppler ultrasound, that sounds like it could be a good fit. Two hospitals near me list it on their websites as test options. Thanks again, I would never have known about it. I’ve been absent for a couple of years. I should probably post and update on what’s going on if people are interested. I’m so lost right now.
I had multiple CT and CT angios of my head and neck about 10 years ago before I figured out the allergic reaction the hospital missed.
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@Simply -
Welcome back, but I’m sorry you’ve needed to return! Of course we’d be interested in an update. We’re always interested in knowing what’s going on in our members’ ES journeys so we can pass along information & also provide support. Please update us when you feel up to it.
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