What is a very serious and life-threatening response to an injection of contrast medium called?

Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that can occur after the injection of a contrast medium, especially in individuals who have a sensitivity to iodine-based substances commonly used in imaging procedures. During anaphylaxis, the body’s immune system responds aggressively to the contrast agent, leading to symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, rapid heartbeat, and a drastic drop in blood pressure. This reaction requires immediate medical attention, often involving the administration of epinephrine to counteract the life-threatening symptoms.

While shock can also be a serious medical condition characterized by insufficient blood flow to the organs, it is a broader term that encompasses various causes, including anaphylaxis. Sepsis refers to a severe infection that spreads throughout the body and can lead to organ failure, which is different from an immediate allergic reaction to a contrast medium. Hemorrhage refers to significant blood loss and is not directly related to an allergic reaction to contrast agents. Thus, anaphylaxis specifically denotes the critical response to contrast medium that requires urgent intervention.