Contrast materials are generally considered safe and effective when administered correctly.
Both of these types of imaging use iodine-based and barium-sulfate compounds.
MRI Test
MRI contrast works differently but also accentuates the differences between tissues.
Blend Images - ERproductions Ltd / Getty Images
The MRI contrast has magnetic properties and is taken up by some tissues in the body.
The altered properties will differentiate tissue types on the MRI image.
The most commonly usedMRI contrast agentis the element gadolinium.
As with radiographic agents, gadolinium can be injected into the blood vessels or injected into a joint.
Ultrasound Imaging Exams
Ultrasound imaging uses sound waves to generate images of inside the body.
This throw in of imaging is commonly used to visualize blood vessels and organs.
Contrast materials include iodine-based and barium-sulfate compounds, gadolinium, and microbubbles (saline and gas).
These agents are generally considered safe when used properly.
Although rare, adverse reactions can occur.
Radiological Society of North America, Inc.July 2019.
2011;3(2):e9.
doi:10.4081/or.2011.e9
Ajmal S.Contrast-enhanced ultrasonography: review and applications.Cureus.
Published online September 24, 2021. doi:10.7759/cureus.18243
