The penetration of metrizamide into the brain after routine lumbar myelography as shown by cerebral computed tomography and its effect on auditory brainstem transmission time.

Metrizamide is a widely used contrast medium with some well known adverse reactions. In a preliminary study, CT scans and brain stem evoked potentials (BAEP) were done before and 18 hours following lumbar myelography on 12 patients. A statistically significant prolongation of the BAEP was observed. Metrizamide therefore seems to be a potent substance in clinical use as indicated by its effect on BAEP. BAEP should not be done within the first few days after myelography with metrizamide.