Additional Coverage:
Tragedy struck a 34-year-old woman who died after an allergic reaction to a CT scan contrast dye. The scan was ordered after she sought emergency room treatment for a severe toothache.
Leigh Rodgers had reportedly been suffering from a toothache for up to two weeks and was unable to secure a timely dental appointment. Her pain intensified, spreading to her neck and chest, prompting a call to emergency services.
At the University Hospital of North Durham, doctors ordered a CT scan to rule out Ludwig’s angina, a serious bacterial infection sometimes linked to dental infections. Leigh was given an iodine-based contrast dye before the scan.
She suffered a severe allergic reaction, going into anaphylactic shock. Despite doctors’ efforts, she died approximately 90 minutes later.
A post-mortem examination confirmed the allergic reaction as the cause of death. Leigh’s partner, Darren, testified at the inquest, describing her unsuccessful attempts to get a dental appointment.
Dr. Oliver Moore, the attending emergency room consultant, testified that Leigh’s reaction was the first he had encountered in his career.
He stated that while CT scans carry a risk of allergic reaction, the situation was extremely rare. He also believed there was no delay in administering treatment.
The coroner described the death as “very unusual” and “extremely unfortunate,” extending condolences to Leigh’s family.