Question

X Ray Contrast Agents

A) Explain what an X-Ray contrast agent is.

B) Give two important characteristics of an X-Ray contrast agent

C) Give two examples of X-Ray contrast agents used in medical imaging including what clinical applications they are utilized for

Answer 1

A

Contrast agents are substances used to enhance the visibly of internal body structure while doing x-ray based radiographic procedures like CT scan, fluoroscopy .

The contract agent may be injected or orally administered. They do not permanently colour the body internal parts but only create temporary contrast colour.

B

important characteristics of x-ray contrast agents:

a) Should be able to colour the body parts thus creating contrast

b) should not cause any temporary/permanent damage to the body parts .

C

Barium meal is used to create contrast in Gastro Intestinal track by making it opaque.

Iodine based compound are injected intravenously to create contrast for CT scans ,