Which of the following is a contraindication to cardiac catheterization?

• A. Hypertension
• B. Obesity
• C. Age over 80
• D. Pregnancy

Answer: (D)

The main idea is that cardiac catheterization uses ionizing radiation and iodinated contrast, which carry risks to a developing fetus. Exposure to radiation during pregnancy can harm fetal tissues and organs, and contrast administration adds potential fetal and maternal risks. Because of these fetal risks, pregnancy is considered an absolute contraindication to cardiac catheterization.

Hypertension, obesity, and age over 80, while they raise procedural risk and may complicate access or imaging, do not by themselves prevent the procedure when there is a strong clinical indication. They require careful planning and optimization, but they are not absolute exclusions.