Cerebrovascular Permeability of a Water-soluble Contrast Material, Hypaque (Sodium Diatrizoate)

Abstract

An experimental study with 125I-labeled Hypaque 50% (sodium diatrizoate) to measure cerebrovascular permeability to contrast agents as well as CNS toxicity is reported. The findings essentially indicate that Hypaque 50% does penetrate and can be determined quantitatively in the CSF with the method described. The degree of penetration into the spinal fluid is a function of contact time of the contrast material with the cerebrovascular endothelium. Levels of Hypaque in the CSF of dogs after administration via the internal carotid artery are reported and correlated with levels obtained after intracisternal administration as well as peripheral venous injection. Minimum convulsive doses for both the carotid and intracisternal routes are reported. A discussion of the value of this experimental procedure for clinical evaluation of patients is presented.