What was supposed to be a standard medical test ended in heartbreak for the family of 22-year-old law student Leticia Paul.
The young woman, described as glamorous and ambitious, passed away after suffering a rare but severe allergic reaction during a CT scan at Alto Valle Regional Hospital in Rio do Sul, Brazil.
The Unexpected Reaction
Leticia had gone in for a contrast-enhanced CT scan on Wednesday—a procedure often used to diagnose internal issues.
As part of the scan, a contrast fluid was injected into her body to help doctors get clearer images.
But instead of aiding her test, the substance triggered an extreme allergic reaction known as anaphylactic shock.
Doctors quickly intubated her in an effort to save her life, but despite their efforts, Leticia died less than 24 hours later.
A Medical History That Led to the Scan
Her aunt, Sandra Paul, shared that Leticia had a history of kidney stones, which is why doctors ordered the CT scan in the first place.
The scan itself uses X-rays and advanced computer imaging to produce cross-sections of the body, often helping detect underlying health conditions.
A Promising Future Cut Short
Leticia’s death has left her family and friends devastated.
She had recently graduated with a law degree from Colegio Sinodal Ruy Barbosa and was pursuing postgraduate studies in Law and Real Estate.
According to local reports, she was admired for her drive and her future looked bright.
Her former college paid tribute, saying: “We express our solidarity with her family and friends, wishing them comfort and strength in this time of grief.”
Hospital Responds to the Loss
Following the tragedy, Alto Valle Regional Hospital released a statement expressing sorrow and solidarity with Leticia’s loved ones.
The hospital emphasized that all procedures were carried out in line with medical protocols, and that patient safety remains their top priority.
The Risks Behind Contrast Injections
Iodinated contrast—the substance injected before CT scans, MRIs, and some X-rays—is a common tool in modern medicine.
It helps make organs and tissues more visible, aiding doctors in reaching accurate diagnoses.
For most patients, side effects are mild, such as nausea, warmth, or itching.
However, severe allergic reactions are possible, though extremely rare—occurring in only one in 5,000 to one in 10,000 cases.
Unfortunately, Leticia fell into that rare category.
A Family Left in Mourning
What should have been a straightforward test has instead left a family grieving the loss of a young woman with her whole life ahead of her.
Friends, family, and her academic community continue to honor Leticia’s memory as they come to terms with her sudden and tragic passing.
