Abstract

Background: Contrast induced encephalopathy is an infrequent complication of contrast media administration. It is usually transient but occasionally leads to permanent neurological deficits and death.
Case presentation: We report here a case of non-ionic iodized contrast induced encephalopathy after an urgent coronary angiography, in a 62 year old woman who developed symptoms of acute stroke. Although diagnostic challenge and under not specific but supportive therapy the symptoms resolved completely within 72 hours without further complications.
Conclusion: CIE is a rare entity whose frequency is dependent on the increasing use of diagnostic/interventional procedures with contrast media. The exclusion of more common complications of such procedures should be prompt. The clinical scenario is challenging and should be considered, in particular in high-risk patients. The course is generally benign and requires supportive therapy.

Key words: Contrast induced encephalopathy, complication, iodine-contrast, coronary angiography, stroke.