Contrast-induced Nephropathy: Radiologist's Opinion

Abstract

Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is one of the most important cause of hospital-acquired acute kidney failure. The use of e-GFR instead of serum creatinine is more predictive for the development of CIN for those patient frequently affected by other pathologies (elderly patients with comorbidities) but it increases number of patient to be hydrated, side effect compensated by the lower 45 ml/min cut-off recently indicated in guidelines for those patients who will receive intravenous iodinated contrast media. Hydration is widely considered the most effective prophylactic tool but it will be effectively implemented only if we will be able to develop necessary synergies between the prescribing physician, radiologist and nephrologist.