Kidney function in contrast media-enhanced imaging

Abstract

The potential adverse reactions to contrast media-enhanced imaging regularly offer challenges in decision-making for nephrologists and radiologists. The clinical pictures of contrast media-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI) and nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) were evaluated, which are both caused by contrast media and closely linked to the kidney function. The literature in PubMed and Medline was searched for the terms "kidney function" and "contrast media" and complemented by our own experiences. While there is an ongoing re-evaluation of the clinical relevance of CI-AKI, no new cases of NSF have recently been reported under consideration of certain preventive interventions and very restricted use of gadolinium-based contrast agents. Considering the results of the latest clinical research, the potential risk of CI-AKI has been overestimated for along time and should no longer outweigh the diagnostic benefit of contrast media-enhanced imaging. Nevertheless, the most effective prophylaxis for CI-AKI is the avoidance of unnecessary administration of contrast media.