Abstract
Introduction: Over the last decade, medical imaging field's advances, have been associated with increased use of contrast media (CM) notably for multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) and magnetic resonances imaging (MRI). Similarly, expansion use of CM, using imaging guidance tools, was due to the extended spectrum of therapeutic interventional procedures in different body organs.
Aim: In this review, our aim was to study the different types of contrast agents and their application.
Methodology: We conducted this review using a comprehensive search of MEDLINE, PubMed, and EMBASE, January 1985, through February 2017. The following search terms were used: contrast media, contrast for CT, for MRI, for X-ray, Gadolinium-based CA, Manganese-based CA, Superparamagnetic CA
Conclusions: X-ray examinations (mainly CT), sonography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging, these diagnostic tools had a specific contrast agent developed for them. They're mostly extracellular agents which develop different enhancement on basis of different vascularization or on basis of different interstitial network in tissues, however, few can be targeted to a specific cell line a (e.g. hepatocyte). The choice of a specific contrast agent while knowing its physical and chemical properties and the probability of side effects and reaction and balancing them with clinical benefits of a more precise diagnosis is the main task of radiologists.