Use of iso-osmolar nonionic dimeric contrast media in multidetector row computed tomography angiography for patients with renal impairment

Objectives: We wanted to determine the rate of contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) caused in patients with renal impairment undergoing multidetector row computed tomography (MDCT) angiography with intravenous administration of iso-osmolar dimeric contrast media (iodixanol). Materials and Methods: The first consecutive 100 patients referred to CT with a serum creatinine level (SCr) between 1.5 and 6 mg/dL were enrolled in the study. Serum creatinine also was determined on days 3 and 7 after the intravenous administration of 100 mL of iodixanol 270 with 5 mL/s. A CIN was considered if variation of SCr on day 3 was > 0.5 mg/dl above baseline. Results: Nine patients developed a CIN after MDCT angiography; 7 of them recovered completely by day 7, and the remaining 2 showed elevated SCr on day 7 but did not develop renal failure during their hospital stay. Conclusions: MDCT angiography performed in patients with impaired renal function with iodixanol may result in CIN but complete recovery is probable.