|  | Conditions Treatments | Kidney Disease

Role of Radiocontrast Dye in the Development of Renal Failure

Radiocontrast dye improves the visibility of the organs and body structures shown on X-rays and imaging studies. This dye increases the risk of acute renal failure, making it necessary to use caution when producing medical images.

  1. Significance

    • Radiocontrast dye can cause contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN), which is kidney damage that occurs after the use of a contrast material. Dr. Marc Schweiger, a cardiologist at Baystate Medical Center, estimates that this condition occurs in one to three percent of people who undergo cardiovascular procedures that involve contrast dye. Radiocontrast dye reduces blood flow to the kidneys, which can trigger kidney damage.

    Effects

    • The kidney damage that occurs in CIN causes a sudden, significant decline in kidney function. When the kidneys stop working properly, fluid and waste products accumulate in the blood. Impaired kidney function also causes electrolyte levels to become imbalanced.

    Risk Factors

    • Risk factors include low blood pressure, existing renal disease or renal failure, advanced age, diabetes, anemia and heart failure.

    Types

    • Intravenous radiocontrast dye is ionic (high osmolar) or non-ionic (low osmolar). Non-ionic contrast materials have fewer side effects than non-ionic contrast materials, and have a lower risk of allergic reaction.

    Prevention

    • The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions published a consensus document on the prevention of CIN in 2006. The recommendations include testing kidney function, ensuring adequate hydration and discontinuing nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) prior to procedures that require radiocontrast dye. Contrast dyes with low osmolarity are used in people with an increased risk for contrast-induced nephropathy.

Kidney Disease - Related Articles