ethiodized oil (Guerbet)

Ethiodized oil is a sterile, radio-opaque diagnostic contrast agent composed of an iodine-addition product of the ethyl esters of the fatty acids of poppyseed oil. It is widely utilized in interventional radiology and oncology, particularly for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) via transarterial chemoembolization (TACE). In this context, it serves a triple role: as a radio-opaque contrast medium for tumor visualization, as a vehicle for the localized delivery of lipophilic or emulsified chemotherapeutic agents (such as doxorubicin), and as a transient embolic agent that induces tumor necrosis by obstructing the microvasculature. It is selectively retained within the neovasculature and interstitial space of hepatic tumors for weeks to months, while being rapidly cleared from normal liver parenchyma. Additionally, it can be radiolabeled with isotopes such as Iodine-131 or Rhenium-188 for internal radiation therapy.

Brand names

LipiodolLipiodol Ultra-FluidEthiodol

Other names

iodized oiliodized poppyseed oilLUFethiodized poppyseed oil