Results from a study on systemic mastocytosis (SM) have recently been published. This investigation aimed to understand the prevalence of contrast media induced hypersensitivity reactions (CMIHR) in different subtypes of SM. The researchers also investigated the severity of CMIHR in different SM subtypes.

Researchers understand that in general, SM patients have a higher risk of reactions due to hypersensitivity. That said, most reports were of hymenoptera (bees, wasps, etc.) venoms as the triggers.

Nonetheless, CMIHR has been reported in some patients. Often, prophylactic premedication is needed. But despite these reports, a systematic study of the correlation between CMIHR and SM had not yet been conducted.

This study aimed to fill this gap. 

The Study

This study included 162 SM patients. 65 had ISM and 97 had advanced SM. Each patient’s history was taken and the cumulative incidence of CMIHR was assessed.

After this history was taken. All patients underwent CM-enhanced imaging. In total, 332 images were taken. Of these, 80 were CT scans (using an iodine agent) and 252 were MRI’s with a gadolinium based agent. For all patients, tolerance was also measured.

The researchers uncovered that 4 patients (out of the 162) had previous CMIHRs related to CT and MRI.

Comparatively, during the study or after the study period, no CMIHRS were reported.

There were 3 patients who were given a medication prior to the CT scans. One of these had previously faced CMIHR. All of these patients handled their imaging very well.

The researchers concluded that there is a large difference between how prevalent people perceive CMIHR to be in SM and how prevalent it actually is. Further, the team found that there are few reactions in ISM and even fewer reactions for advanced SM patients. Finally, they concluded that those who do not have a history of CM hypersensitivity, the prophylactic premedication before imaging is not necessary.

You can read more about this study and the incidence of CMIHR in SM here.