Brazilian Lawyer, 22, Dies After Suspected Allergic Reaction to CT Contrast Media

A tragic incident in southern Brazil has highlighted the rare but serious risks associated with the use of iodinated contrast media during diagnostic imaging. Leticia Paul, a 22-year-old lawyer from Lontras, died after suffering what is believed to have been a severe anaphylactic reaction during a CT scan with contrast at Alto Vale Regional Hospital in Rio do Sul on August 20.

Paul was undergoing a routine abdominal and pelvic CT to evaluate issues related to her history of kidney stones. Local reports indicate that shortly after receiving the contrast injection, she developed a critical reaction. Despite immediate medical intervention, she required intubation and hospitalization. Less than 24 hours later, she passed away.

Her aunt, Sandra Paul, shared with the Brazilian news outlet g1 that her niece had long been dedicated to her studies and career ambitions. “She was a vibrant girl, with a lot of personality. She loved law, she was so studious. She dreamed big, and I'm sure she would be a well-known name in the legal world,” she said. Sandra did not comment on whether Leticia had received contrast media in the past or had any prior history of allergic reactions.

Paul had recently completed her law degree and was preparing to specialize in business and real estate law. Her sudden death has deeply affected her family, friends, and professional community.

In a public statement, Alto Vale Regional Hospital extended condolences and reaffirmed its dedication to patient safety: “We regret this loss and extend our heartfelt sympathies to the family. We reaffirm our commitment to ethics, transparency, and patient safety, emphasizing that all procedures are conducted in accordance with recommended clinical protocols.”

Contrast-enhanced CT scans are widely used to improve visualization of organs and structures, and reactions to iodinated contrast agents are uncommon. Severe life-threatening events such as anaphylaxis occur in only a very small percentage of cases. However, the incident underscores the unpredictable nature of hypersensitivity reactions, even in otherwise young and healthy individuals.

Details such as the type of contrast agent administered and the dose have not been made public. It remains unclear whether a formal investigation is underway.

Paul’s story brings renewed attention to the delicate balance between the clinical benefits of enhanced imaging and the rare risks involved. While CT contrast agents are considered safe for most patients, experts emphasize the importance of careful screening, rapid emergency preparedness, and patient awareness of potential allergic responses.

The tragedy has sparked an outpouring of grief in her hometown and beyond, where many remember her as a promising young professional whose career had only just begun. Her loss also serves as a somber reminder of the unpredictable challenges clinicians face in diagnostic medicine.