Inferior vena cava assessment can predict contrast-induced nephropathy in patients undergoing cardiac catheterization: A single-center prospective study

An echocardiographic predictor of contrast-induced nephropathy following percutaneous coronary intervention in acute coronary syndrome: aortic valve sclerosis

Objective. Aortic valve sclerosis (AVS) is closely related to endothelial dysfunction. The association of AVS with contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is unknown. We planned to investigate the relationship of AVS besides known parameters with CIN. Design. Baseline characteristics, biochemical values, and AVS of 292 consecutive patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) that underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) were analyzed. Results. Fifty-three patients (18.2%) had CIN. Patients with CIN were older, less likely to be smokers, and had more prevalent prior bypass surgery, higher Mehran score, creatinine, and uric acid concentrations than those without CIN. AVS was more prevalent in patients with CIN. Logistic regression analysis including all related parameters identified Mehran score (OR = 1.036, p = .033), uric acid concentration (OR = 1.244, p = .023), and AVS (OR: 2.223, p = .027) as independent predictors of CIN. Conclusion. AVS is independently associated with CIN in patients with acute coronary syndrome undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention. AVS may help to identify high-risk patients for CIN, who would benefit from preventive measures.

Contrast Nephropathy Associated with Percutaneous Coronary Angiography and Intervention

Contrast nephropathy (CN) is acute kidney injury (AKI) that occurs within 24 to 72 hours of iodinated contrast medium (ICM) administration. Mechanisms of CN include hyperviscosity, free radical formation, and renal medullary oxygen supply/demand mismatch. Although risk factors for CN have been identified, it remains uncertain whether ICM causes or is simply associated with AKI. The cornerstones of CN prevention are using low-osmolal ICM, intravenous hydration, and statins, especially in patients with chronic kidney disease. With appropriate CN risk mitigation, coronary angiography and intervention should not be routinely withheld from patients with acute coronary syndromes.