EXPLORING THE CAPABILITIES OF LOW-VOLTAGE CT SCANS WITH REDUCED IODINE CONTRAST AGENT DOSAGE IN CONTRAST-ENHANCED COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY

Abstract

Objectives: Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) is a widely used imaging modality in medical diagnostics. However, the high dosage of iodine contrast agents and the associated risks of adverse reactions and contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) have raised concerns. This review article explores the potential of low-voltage CT scans with reduced iodine contrast agent dosage in CECT.

Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, to identify relevant studies published between January 2010 and December 2023.

Findings: A total of 25 studies met the inclusion criteria, including 19 observational studies and six randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The results of the RCTs showed that low-voltage CT scans with reduced iodine contrast agent dosage resulted in similar diagnostic accuracy compared to standard-voltage CT scans with full-dose contrast agents.  The findings of this review article suggest that low-voltage CT scans with reduced iodine contrast agent dosage can provide comparable diagnostic accuracy with a lower risk of adverse reactions and CIN. Therefore, the adoption of low-voltage CT scans with reduced iodine contrast agent dosage in clinical practice can potentially improve patient safety and reduce healthcare costs. Further research is needed to establish the optimal protocol for low-voltage CT scans with reduced iodine contrast agent dosage and to evaluate its long-term outcomes.

Novelty: The observational studies also revealed that low-voltage CT scans with reduced iodine contrast agent dosage were associated with a lower incidence of adverse reactions and CIN.