How often do allergists hear: “I am allergic to fish and therefore I am allergic to the iodine in radiocontrast dye”?

The long-standing misconception that there is a higher incidence of allergic reactions to radiocontrast media (IVP dye) in those with seafood allergy is alive and well. And, this misunderstanding is pervasive among both physicians and patients.

In a survey of 231 faculty radiologist and interventional cardiologists at 6 midwest academic medical centers, sixty-nine percent of responders indicated that they inquire about a history of seafood allergy before radiocontrast media administration. Some 37.2% of responders replied that they would withhold radiocontrast media or recommend premedication on the basis of a history of seafood allergy.

Medical research has proven time and time again that there is no cross-reactivity between these substances. Physician education with respect to seafood allergy and radiocontrast media administration is vital to halting the persistence of this misconception.

The American Journal of Medicine
Volume 121, Issue 2, February 2008, Pages 158.e1-158.e4