Which is a common complication of intravenous contrast administration?

Anaphylactic reactions are a known and significant complication that can occur with intravenous contrast administration. This type of reaction is an acute hypersensitivity response that can happen when a patient has an allergy to the contrast agent used in imaging studies. Symptoms may range from mild (such as hives and itching) to severe (including difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, and, in extreme cases, shock).

The risk of anaphylactic reactions underscores the importance of thorough patient history-taking to identify any previous allergic reactions to contrast media. Additionally, medical staff are trained to recognize these reactions quickly and provide appropriate treatment if they occur.

In contrast to anaphylactic reactions, skin discoloration, urinary retention, and bleeding at the site are not as directly associated with the administration of intravenous contrast. Skin discoloration, while it may happen in various circumstances, does not commonly relate to contrast media and is usually benign. Urinary retention is typically influenced by other factors such as medications or bladder conditions rather than contrast administration. Bleeding at the injection site can occur, but it is generally considered a procedural complication rather than a direct reaction to the contrast material itself.