Written question asked by Harry Cohen (Labour) on Thursday, 14 May 1998, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 21 May 1998. It was answered by Baroness Jowell (Labour) on Thursday, 21 May 1998 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Dept of Health

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health, what assessment his Department has made of the risk of myelography causing arachnoiditis.

Answer: Mr. Cohen: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what assessment his Department has made of the risk of myelography causing arachnoiditis; and if he will make a statement. [42391] Ms Jowell: Any injury to the arachnoid membrane carries a risk of arachnoiditis. However, all medicinal products, such as the contrast agents used in myelography, are subject to stringent assessment of safety, quality and efficacy prior to being licensed. They are closely monitored by the Medicines Control Agency after licensing to detect any previously unrecognised adverse effects or any change in the balance of risks and benefits.

Secondary information