Hypersensitivity reactions to iodinated contrast media are a pressing public health issue. Lack of understanding of pathogenetic mechanisms of such reactions leads to unjustified refuse of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures using iodinated contrast agents. Reactions of hypersensitivity to other iodine-containing medications are not a contraindication for use of contrast agents. Skin allergy tests are only performed in the patients who had a history of allergic reactions to iodinated contrast media. Usually it is possible to determine an alternative agent by means of skin tests. Premedication before a contrast-enhanced radiological examination has to be indicated to all patients with previous history of allergic disease.