What type of contrast agent is used for an intravenous pyelogram (IVP)?

Question

Question

Answer 1

Correct Answer: Iodine-based contrast

Rationale:

An intravenous pyelogram (IVP) is a radiological procedure used to visualize abnormalities of the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, and bladder.
Iodine-based contrast agents are commonly used in IVP because they are radiopaque, meaning they block X-rays and appear white on X-ray images, providing clear and detailed images of the urinary tract.
When injected intravenously, iodine-based contrast agents circulate through the bloodstream and are filtered by the kidneys, allowing for enhanced imaging of the urinary system.

Explanation of Other Options:

Barium sulfate

Rationale: Barium sulfate is a radiopaque contrast agent used primarily for imaging the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, such as in barium swallows, barium enemas, and upper GI series. It is not suitable for intravenous use or for imaging the urinary system.

Gadolinium

Rationale: Gadolinium-based contrast agents are used in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to enhance the visibility of internal structures. They are not used in X-ray procedures like IVP because they do not provide the necessary radiopacity for X-ray imaging.

Technetium

Rationale: Technetium is a radioactive tracer used in nuclear medicine imaging procedures, such as bone scans and cardiac stress tests. It is not used for IVP as it does not provide the required contrast for X-ray imaging of the urinary system.

Conclusion:

For an intravenous pyelogram (IVP), iodine-based contrast is the appropriate agent because of its radiopaque properties, which allow for detailed imaging of the urinary tract. The other options are used for different types of imaging procedures and are not suitable for IVP.