Medical procedures that are usually considered safe can sometimes take a devastating turn, as seen in the heartbreaking case of Leticia Paul.
The 22-year-old law student from Rio do Sul, Brazil, passed away after suffering a severe allergic reaction while undergoing a standard CT scan.
What Happened During the Scan
Paul was at the Alto Valle Regional Hospital on Wednesday for a contrast-enhanced CT scan.
This type of scan involves injecting a special fluid into the body to make organs and tissues more visible on the images.
Unfortunately, Leticia went into anaphylactic shock after the injection.
Hospital staff acted immediately, intubating her in an attempt to save her life.
Despite their efforts, she tragically died less than 24 hours later, according to her aunt, Sandra Paul.
Leticia’s Life and Ambitions
Leticia had recently earned her law degree from Colegio Sinodal Ruy Barbosa and was pursuing postgraduate studies in Law and Real Estate.
Her family remembers her as a bright and ambitious young woman with a promising future.
Her aunt spoke about her dedication to her studies and her dream of making a difference in her field.
Hospital Response and Safety Measures
The Alto Vale Regional Hospital issued a statement expressing deep regret over the loss and extending condolences to her family.
The hospital emphasized that all procedures are performed in line with recommended clinical protocols and reaffirmed its commitment to ethical and safe medical practices.
Understanding Contrast Reactions
The fluid used in CT scans, MRIs, and certain X-rays is typically iodinated contrast, which enhances the visibility of internal organs.
While it is widely considered safe, severe allergic reactions are extremely rare, occurring in roughly one in 5,000 to 10,000 cases.
Most patients only experience mild side effects such as warmth, nausea, or itching.
Mourning and Support
Leticia’s alma mater, Colegio Sinodal Ruy Barbosa, also shared their condolences, expressing solidarity with her family and friends and offering support during this difficult time.
Her sudden death serves as a tragic reminder of how unpredictable and fragile life can be, even in routine situations.
