ARRT Contrast Media and Pharmacology 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which route of administration delivers contrast media directly into the subarachnoid space for myelography?
- Intravenous
- Intrathecal (Correct answer)
- Intra-arterial
- Oral
Correct answer: Intrathecal
Intrathecal injection places contrast into the subarachnoid space to visualize the spinal cord and nerve roots during myelography.
Question 2: Barium sulfate is contraindicated when which clinical condition is suspected?
- Hiatal hernia
- Bowel perforation (Correct answer)
- Peptic ulcer disease
- Constipation
Correct answer: Bowel perforation
Barium sulfate is contraindicated with suspected bowel perforation because leakage into the peritoneum causes severe peritonitis.
Question 3: What type of contrast agent is used when bowel perforation is suspected and barium is contraindicated?
- Gadolinium-based agent
- Water-soluble iodinated contrast (Correct answer)
- Carbon dioxide gas
- Air contrast only
Correct answer: Water-soluble iodinated contrast
Water-soluble iodinated contrast agents are used instead of barium when perforation is suspected because they are absorbed and cleared safely.
Question 4: Gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs) are primarily used with which imaging modality?
- Computed Tomography (CT)
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) (Correct answer)
- Conventional Radiography
- Nuclear Medicine
Correct answer: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
GBCAs are paramagnetic agents that enhance tissue contrast specifically in MRI examinations.
Question 5: Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) is a rare complication associated with which contrast agent in patients with severe renal failure?
- Iodinated contrast
- Gadolinium-based contrast (Correct answer)
- Barium sulfate
- Carbon dioxide
Correct answer: Gadolinium-based contrast
NSF is a serious fibrotic condition linked to gadolinium retention in patients with severe renal impairment.
Question 6: What is extravasation in the context of contrast media administration?
- A severe anaphylactic reaction
- Leakage of contrast into surrounding tissue at the injection site (Correct answer)
- Contrast entering the arterial system
- A delayed allergic response
Correct answer: Leakage of contrast into surrounding tissue at the injection site
Extravasation occurs when contrast media leaks from the vein into the surrounding soft tissue, potentially causing pain and tissue injury.
ARRT Contrast Media and Pharmacology 2
Which route of administration delivers contrast media directly into the subarachnoid space for myelography?