Reda Benchekroun, Salma Bensalah, Amina Outahayou, Nesma Bendagha, Rokya Fellat
Journal: Medpeer Publisher
ISSN: 3066-2737
Volume: 3
Issue: 9
Date of Publication: 2026/09/01
Coronary angiography is a widely performed diagnostic and therapeutic procedure generally considered safe. Acute pancreatitis following coronary angiography remains exceptionally rare but may represent a serious complication related to iodinated contrast exposure or cholesterol embolization. We report the case of a 61-year-old woman admitted for non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction who developed acute epigastric pain and vomiting approximately 12 hours after coronary angiography using 50 mL of low-osmolar nonionic contrast medium (iopromide). Laboratory investigations revealed elevated serum lipase levels, while abdominal computed tomography confirmed Balthazar grade A acute pancreatitis without necrosis or fluid collection. Common etiologies including gallstones, alcohol use, hypercalcemia, hypertriglyceridemia, and autoimmune disease were excluded. The patient improved with conservative management including intravenous hydration, analgesia, and gradual refeeding. Although contrast-associated pancreatitis is exceptionally uncommon, clinicians should consider this diagnosis in patients presenting with abdominal symptoms shortly after exposure to iodinated contrast agents. Early recognition may help avoid diagnostic delay and support appropriate management. Further studies are needed to clarify the underlying mechanisms and identify preventive strategies for this rare complication.
Acute pancreatitis, Contrast-induced pancreatitis, Iodinated contrast media, Coronary angiography, NSTEMI
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