contrast agent

[Hotcars74]

I'm allergic to the contrast agent they use in most Imaging scans, My question is, how will this affect my search for the met's when the time comes, I haven't talked this over with Doctors yet I would appreciate your take on this thy

[Tall_Allen]

The contrast agent aids visualization and localization but isn't crucial to the CT scan. Try to get a CT scan that is at least 64 slice with iterative reconstruction and spectral imaging.

[Hotcars74 in reply to Tall_Allen]

Thanks TA, if you would, 2 more Q, when should I be having my next scan ? I'm just over 4 yrs in, diag in 10-2014, PSA 45. surgery 12-14, 9 mo later start lup 12-2015 rad (39) psa unt 10-17 psa back up to 8. back on lup psa down .02? till 10-18 than off, on casodex alone 2-26-19 psa .047 what should I be watching for ? I'm 64yr retired doing well with this, cant tell anythings wrong by looking at me appreciate your knowledge

[Tall_Allen in reply to Hotcars74]

I don't see why you would be getting a scan now - PSA is holding at a low level. I don't know what decision you are trying to make.

[Hotcars74 in reply to Tall_Allen]

Just looking to stay on top of this, shoulda woulda coulda

[Firespooks]

I’m allergic to contrast dye as well. I break out in hives and rash. The Technician told me if I need the dye again, that they can give me a medication a few days in advance I should have no problem. I can have a CT Scan without the dye at any time I need one.

[agyoung in reply to Firespooks]

Be careful of the “advance preparation”. I had a reaction to the dye for a pelvic CT scan about 1.5 years ago. Blood pressure dropped dramatically, etc. I was seen at MD Anderson two months ago for another CT scan. Told them about the reaction and they did an advance prep (primarily prednisone) beginning the day before. About ten minutes after the dye was introduced I had a severe reaction; Dr. had not seen anything like it. They were scrambling around like they were on fire trying to do something. After releasing two large vials of Benedryl into my bloodstream, they told me never to have another contrast scan done with anything related to iodine. They assured me that the next one might cause me to assume room temperature.

Take care,

Alan

[Firespooks in reply to agyoung]

That’s good to know. Thank you. 👍