Prevalence of contrast-induced nephropathy after primary percutaneous coronary intervention at a tertiary referral hospital

Objective

This study aimed to quantify the incidence of Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) in patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) due to acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

Methods

From April 2019 to March 2022, a prospective, observational study enrolled 213 consecutive STEMI patients referred to a tertiary hospital for PPCI. Participants were divided into tow groups based on the presence or absence of contrast-induced nephropathy. The chi-square test (χ2) and Student's t-test evaluated the data, with logistic regression identifying CIN's independent predictors.

Results

Results: In this study, the incidence of contrast-induced nephropathy was observed at 13.1% (N = 28). Several factors were more prevalent among patients exhibiting contrast-induced nephropathy. These factors encompassed: radial access for coronary angiography over the femoral method (P = 0.021), elevated contrast volume (P = 0.003), smoking (P = 0.009), diabetes (P = 0.04), heart failure (P = 0.049), a history of coronary artery bypass graft (P = 0.006), diminished left ventricular ejection fraction indicating systolic dysfunction (P = 0.012), cardiogenic shock (P = 0.046), increased BUN at the time of admission (P = 0.043), decreased initial GFR (P = 0.004), and prior consumption of medications such as aspirin (P = 0.002), diuretics (P = 0.046), beta blockers (P = 0.04), angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (P = 0.033), angiotensin receptor blockers (P = 0.02). Other relevant conditions included anemia (P = 0.012), leukocytosis (P = 0.011), hypercholesterolemia (P = 0.034), and reduced HDL levels (P = 0.004).Through logistic regression, key predictors for the onset of contrast-induced nephropathy were determined, which included heart failure (OR: 5.52; 95% CI: 1.08-28.24), radial access (OR: 12.71; 95% CI: 1.45-110.9), hypercholesterolemia (OR: 1.02; 95% CI: 1.004-1.04), increased BUN upon admission (OR: 1.11; 95% CI: 1.006-1.24), and leukocytosis (OR: 2.03; 95% CI: 1.18-3.49).

Conclusions

While heart failure, radial access, hypercholesterolemia, elevated BUN at admission, and leukocytosis significantly influenced renal filtration deterioration post-PPCI, it's evident that CIN is multifactorial. Further studies are crucial to elucidate the underlying factors.

Effect of Curcuminoids on Contrast-Induced Acute Kidney Injury after Elective Coronary Angiography or Intervention: A Pilot Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study

INTRODUCTION

The role of curcuminoids, a striking antioxidant, in prevention of contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI) remains unknown. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of curcuminoids in preventing CI-AKI in patients undergoing elective coronary angiography (CAG) and/or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

METHODS

We randomized 114 patients who were undergoing elective CAG and/or PCI to receive curcuminoids, 4 g/day (1 day before and 1 day after the procedure, n = 56), or placebo (n = 58). Serum creatinine was assessed at baseline, 12, 24, and 48 h after contrast exposure. The primary endpoint was development of CI-AKI defined as serum creatinine increase ≥0.3 mg/dL within 48 h after contrast exposure. The secondary endpoint was the occurrence of kidney injury defined by >30% increase in urine neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL).

RESULTS

Baseline characteristics were comparable between the two groups. Seven (12.7%) in curcuminoids group and eight (14.0%) in placebo group developed CI-AKI (p = 0.84). The incidence of increased urine NGAL was comparable in the placebo and curcuminoids group (39.6% vs. 50%, respectively; p = 0.34). None in both groups had drug-related adverse events.

CONCLUSION

This is a pilot study to demonstrate the safety and tolerability of curcuminoids in patients undergoing elective CAG and/or PCI. Curcuminoids have no protective effects against kidney injury after elective CAG and/or PCI.

The Treatment of Coronary Artery Disease in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease: Gaps, Challenges, and Solutions

Background

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with a high burden of coronary artery disease (CAD), which remains the leading cause of death in CKD patients. Despite the high cardiovascular risk, ACS patients with renal dysfunction are less commonly treated with guideline-based medical therapy and are less frequently referred for coronary revascularization.

Summary

The management of CAD is more challenging in patients with CKD than in the general population due to concerns regarding side effects and renal toxicity, as well as uncertainty regarding clinical benefit of guideline-based medical therapy and interventions. Patients with advanced CKD and especially those receiving dialysis have not traditionally been represented in randomized trials evaluating either medical or revascularization therapies. Thus, only scant data from small prospective studies or retrospective analyses are available. Recently published studies suggest that there are significant opportunities to substantially improve both cardiovascular and renal outcomes of patients with CAD and CKD, including new medications and interventions. Thus, the objective of this review is to summarize the current evidence regarding the management of CAD in CKD patients, in particular with respect to improvement of both cardiovascular and renal outcomes.

Key Messages

Adequate medical therapy and coronary interventions using evidence-based strategies can improve both cardiac and renal outcomes in patients with CAD and CKD.

Blood-urea-nitrogen-to-serum-albumin ratio in predicting the value of patients with contrast-induced nephropathy for coronary heart disease

BACKGROUND

The blood-urea-nitrogen (BUN)-to-serum-albumin (ALB) ratio (BAR) has been identified as a novel indicator of both inflammatory and nutritional status, exhibiting a correlation with adverse cardiovascular outcomes. This study aims to investigate the potential predictive value of BAR levels at admission for the development of CIN in patients undergoing coronary angiography (CAG) or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

METHODS

Retrospective data were collected from patients who were admitted and underwent CAG or PCI between January 2018 and December 2022 at the Cardiac Medical Center of Union Hospital of Fujian Medical University, and the patients were divided into CIN and non-CIN groups. The BAR was computed by dividing the BUN count by the ALB count. Using multiple variable logistic regression, risk variables associated with the development of CIN were found.

RESULTS

A total of 156 patients developed CIN (7.78%). The development of CIN was predicted by a BAR ratio > 4.340 with a sensitivity of 84.0% and a specificity of 70.2%, according to receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. BAR, female gender, diuretic use, and statin medication use were found to be independent predictors of CIN using multifactorial analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

When patients are receiving CAG/PCI, BAR is a simple-to-use marker that can be used independently to predict the presence of CIN.

Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells cultured in serum-free medium attenuate acute contrast-induced nephropathy by exerting anti-apoptotic effects

BACKGROUND

Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is a major clinical problem associated with acute kidney injury during hospitalization. However, effective treatments for CIN are currently lacking. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have protective effects against kidney injury by suppressing inflammation and fibrosis. We previously showed that MSCs cultured in serum-free medium (SF-MSCs) enhance their anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects. However, whether SF-MSCs potentiate their anti-apoptotic effects is unknown. Here, we investigated the effects of SF-MSCs on a CIN mouse model.

METHODS

To create CIN model mice, we removed right kidney at first. One week later, the left renal artery was clamped for 30 min to cause ischemia-reperfusion injury, and mice were injected with iohexol. Then the kidney received 10 Gy of irradiation, and MSCs or SF-MSCs were injected immediately. At 24 h post-injection, mice were sacrificed, and their blood and kidneys were collected to evaluate renal function, DNA damage, and apoptosis. In addition, apoptosis was induced in HEK-293 cells by irradiation and cells were treated with conditioned medium from MSCs or SF-MSCs.

RESULTS

Treatment of CIN model mice with SF-MSCs markedly improved renal function compared with MSCs treatment. Cleaved caspase-3 levels and TUNEL-positive cell numbers were strongly suppressed in CIN model mice treated with SF-MSCs compared with the findings in those treated with MSCs. γH2AX levels, a chromosome damage marker, were reduced by MSCs and further reduced by SF-MSCs. In addition, cleaved caspase-3 in irradiated HEK-293 cells was more strongly suppressed by conditioned medium from SF-MSCs than by that from MSCs. Secretion of epidermal growth factor (EGF) was enhanced by culturing MSCs in serum-free medium. Knockdown of EGF by siRNA attenuated the inhibitory effects of SF-MSCs on CIN-induced renal dysfunction and tubular apoptosis.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings strongly suggest that SF-MSCs improve CIN in model mice by exerting anti-apoptotic effects in a paracrine manner. Thus, SF-MSCs represent a potential novel therapy for CIN.

Predicting Contrast-induced Renal Complications

Chronic kidney disease is an independent risk factor for the development of coronary artery disease and overlaps with other risk factors such as hypertension and diabetes. Percutaneous coronary intervention is a cornerstone of therapy for coronary artery disease and requires contrast media, which can lead to renal injury. Identifying patients at risk for contrast-associated acute kidney injury (CA-AKI) is critical for preventing kidney damage, which is associated with both short- and long-term mortality. Determination of the potential risk for CA-AKI and a new need for dialysis using validated risk prediction tools identifies patients at high risk for this complication. Identification of patients at risk for renal injury after contrast exposure is the first critical step in prevention. Contrast media volume, age and sex of the patient, a history of chronic kidney disease and/or diabetes, clinical presentation, and hemodynamic and volume status are factors known to predict incident contrast-induced nephropathy. Recognition of at-risk patient subpopulations allows for targeted, efficient, and cost-effective strategies to reduce the risk of renal complications resulting from contrast media exposure.

Key Considerations regarding the Renal Risks of Iodinated Contrast Media: The Nephrologist's Role

BACKGROUND

The administration of iodinated contrast medium during diagnostic and therapeutic procedures has always been associated with the fear of causing acute kidney injury (AKI) or an exacerbation of chronic kidney disease. This has led, on the one hand, to the deterrence, when possible, of the use of contrast medium (preferring other imaging methods with the risk of loss of diagnostic power), and on the other hand, to the trialling of multiple prophylaxis protocols in an attempt to reduce the risk of kidney injury.

SUMMARY

A literature review on contrast-induced (CI)-AKI risk mitigation strategies was performed, focussing on the recognition of individual risk factors and on the most recent evidence regarding prophylaxis.

KEY MESSAGES

Nephrologists can contribute significantly in the CI-AKI context, from the early stages of the decision-making process to stratifying patients by risk, individualising prophylaxis measures based on the risk profile, and ensuring appropriate evaluation of kidney function and damage post-procedure to improve care.

Oral Nicorandil effectively attenuates the incidence of contrast-induced nephropathy in patients undergoing cardiac catheterization: a randomized, controlled, open-label clinical trial

PURPOSE

The contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) rate is increasing globally and can increase the rate of mortality and long-term problems. This study aims to determine the effect of Nicorandil on preventing CIN among patients undergoing cardiac catheterization.

METHODS

In a controlled randomized open-labeled clinical trial, all included patients undergoing cardiac catheterization due to coronary problems and possessing at least two risk factors of contrast nephropathy were divided into two groups of intervention and control. The intervention group received oral Nicorandil and normal saline, while the control group was treated with intravenous normal saline. Serum creatinine was measured before and 48 h after the procedure, and patients were assessed regarding CIN.

RESULTS

In this study, 172 patients entered each group; 41.86% and 45.34% were male in the control and Nicorandil groups. We showed that the incidence of CIN was meaningfully lower in the Nicorandil group (12, 7%) than in the control group (34, 19.8%, P = 0.001). Additionally, the incidence of CIN was notably lower in the female patients in the Nicorandil (85.7%) than in the control group (14.3%, P = 0.001); however, these numbers were not significantly different among men (64.0% and 36.0%, respectively, P = 0.850). After the injection of the contrast agent, the serum levels of blood urea nitrogen (P = 0.248), creatinine (P = 0.081), and glomerular filtration rate (P = 0.386) showed no significant differences between the control and Nicorandil groups. Multivariate regression analysis showed that Nicorandil significantly lowered the odds of CIN [odds ratio (OR) = 0.299, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.149-0.602; P = 0.001] after adjustment for baseline creatinine (OR = 1.404, 95% CI 0.431-4.572; P = 0.574).

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that pre-procedural treatment with Nicorandil may be effective against CIN in contrast to agent-exposed patients.

Image quality of spectral brain computed tomography angiography using halved dose of iodine contrast medium

PURPOSE

Reduction in iodinated contrast medium (CM) dose is highly motivated. Our aim was to evaluate if a 50% reduction of CM, while preserving image quality, is possible in brain CT angiography (CTA) using virtual monoenergetic images (VMI) on spectral CT. As a secondary aim, we evaluated if VMI can salvage examinations with suboptimal CM timing.

METHODS

Consecutive patients older than 18 years without intracranial stenosis/occlusion were included. Three imaging protocols were used: group 1, full CM dose; group 2, 50% CM dose suboptimal timing; and group 3, 50% CM dose optimized timing. Attenuation, noise, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) were measured in the internal carotid artery, M2 segment of the middle cerebral artery, and white matter for conventional images (CI) and VMI (40-200 keV). Qualitative image quality for CI and VMI (50 and 60 keV) was rated by 4 experienced reviewers.

RESULTS

Qualitatively and quantitatively, VMI (40-60 keV) improved image quality within each group. Significantly higher attenuation and CNR was found for group 3 VMI 40-50 keV, with unchanged SNR, compared to group 1 CI. Group 3 VMI 50 keV also received significantly higher rating scores than group 1 CI. Group 2 VMI (40-50 keV) had significantly higher CNR compared to group 3 CI, but the subjective image quality was similar.

CONCLUSION

VMI of 50 keV with 50% CM dose increases qualitative and quantitative image quality over CI with full CM dose. Using VMI reduces non-diagnostic examinations and may salvage CTA examinations deemed non-diagnostic due to suboptimal timing.

The safety of SGLT-2 inhibitors in diabetic patients submitted to elective percutaneous coronary intervention regarding kidney function: SAFE-PCI pilot study

BACKGROUND

Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is one of the most performed well-succeeded therapeutic procedures worldwide, reducing symptoms and improving quality of life. Neutrophil Gelatinase-associated Lipocalin (NGAL) is a biomarker of acute kidney injury (AKI) produced early after an ischemic renal insult. Osmotic diuresis and the vasoconstriction of the afferent arteriole promoted by Sodium-glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibitors (SGLT2i) generate a concern regarding the possibility of dehydration and consequent AKI. There is no consensus on the maintenance or discontinuation of SGTL2i in patients who will undergo PCI. This study aimed to evaluate the safety of empagliflozin in diabetic patients submitted to elective PCI regarding kidney function.

METHODS

SAFE-PCI trial is a prospective, open-label, randomized (1:1), single-center pilot study and a follow-up of 30 days. The SGLT2i empagliflozin 25 mg daily was initiated at least 15 days before PCI in the intervention group and maintained until the end of the follow-up period. Serum NGAL was collected 6 h after PCI and creatinine before PCI, 24 h, and 48 h after the procedure. As per protocol, both groups received optimal medical treatment and standard protocol of nephroprotection.

RESULTS

A total of 42 patients were randomized (22 patients in the iSGLT-2 group and 20 patients in the control group). There was no difference between-group baseline data. The primary outcome (NGAL and creatinine values post PCI) did not differ in both groups: the mean NGAL value was 199 ng/dL in the empagliflozin group and 150 ng/dL in the control group (p = 0.249). Although there was an initial increase in creatinine in the SGLT-2i group compared to the control group between baseline creatinine and pre-PCI and 24 h post-PCI creatinine, no difference was detected in creatinine 48 h post-PCI (p = 0.065). The incidence of CI-AKI, determined by KDIGO criteria, in the iSGLT2-group was 13.6% and 10.0% in the control group without statistical difference.

CONCLUSION

The present study showed that the use of empagliflozin is safe regarding kidney function during elective PCI in patients with T2D when compared with no use of SGLT2i. Trial registration Our clinical study is registered on ClinicalTrials.gov with the following number: NCT05037695.

Different hydration methods for the prevention of contrast-induced nephropathy in patients with elective percutaneous coronary intervention: a retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Hydration is currently the main measure to prevent contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN). We aimed to compare the preventive effect of preprocedure and postprocedure hydration on CIN in patients with coronary heart disease undergoing elective percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

METHODS

A retrospective study included 198 cases of postprocedure hydration and 396 cases of preprocedure hydration using propensity score matching. The incidence of CIN 48 h after PCI and adverse events within 30 days after contrast media exposure were compared between the two groups. Logistic regression analysis was used to analyse the risk factors for CIN.

RESULTS

The incidence of CIN in the postprocedure hydration group was 3.54%, while that in the preprocedure hydration group was 4.8%. There was no significant difference between the two groups (p = 0.478). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that diabetes mellitus, baseline BNP and cystatin C levels, and contrast agent dosage were independent risk factors for CIN. There was no significant difference in the incidence of major adverse events between the two groups (3.03% vs. 2.02%, p = 0.830).

CONCLUSIONS

Postprocedure hydration is equally effective compared to preoperative hydration in the prevention of CIN in patients with coronary heart disease undergoing elective PCI.

Impact of minimum contrast media volumes during percutaneous coronary intervention for chronic total occlusion lesion

Contrast media exposure is associated with contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) of chronic total occlusion (CTO). Aim of this study is to assess the utility of minimum contrast media volume (CMV ≤ 50 mL) during CTO-PCI for CIN prevention in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). We extracted data from the Japanese CTO-PCI expert registry; 2863 patients with CKD who underwent CTO-PCI performed from 2014 to 2020 were divided into two groups: minimum CMV (n = 191) and non-minimum CMV groups (n = 2672). CIN was defined as an increased serum creatinine level of ≥ 25% and/or ≥ 0.5 mg/dL compared with baseline levels within 72 h of the procedure. In the minimum CMV group, the CIN incidence was lower than that in the non-minimum CMV group (1.0% vs. 4.1%; p = 0.03). Patient success rate was higher and complication rate was lower in the minimum CMV group than in the non-minimum CMV group (96.8% vs. 90.3%; p = 0.02 and 3.1% vs. 7.1%; p = 0.03). In the minimum CMV group, the primary retrograde approach was more frequent in the case of J-CTO = 1,2 and 3-5 groups compared to that in non-minimum CMV-PCI group (J-CTO = 0; 11% vs. 17.7%, p = 0.06; J-CTO = 1; 22% vs. 35.8%, p = 0.01; J-CTO = 2; 32.4% vs. 46.5%, p = 0.01; and J-CTO = 3-5; 44.7% vs. 80.0%, p = 0.02). Minimum CMV-PCI for CTO in CKD patients could reduce the incidence of CIN. The primary retrograde approach was observed to a greater extent in the minimum CMV group, especially in cases of difficult CTO.

Renal outcomes following intravenous contrast administration in patients with acute kidney injury: a multi-site retrospective propensity-adjusted analysis

PURPOSE

Evidence of an association between intravenous contrast media (CM) and persistent renal dysfunction is lacking for patients with pre-existing acute kidney injury (AKI). This study was designed to determine the association between intravenous CM administration and persistent AKI in patients with pre-existing AKI.

METHODS

A retrospective propensity-weighted and entropy-balanced observational cohort analysis of consecutive hospitalized patients ≥ 18 years old meeting Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) creatinine-based criteria for AKI at time of arrival to one of three emergency departments between 7/1/2017 and 6/30/2021 who did or did not receive intravenous CM. Outcomes included persistent AKI at hospital discharge and initiation of dialysis within 180 days of index encounter.

RESULTS

Our analysis included 14,449 patient encounters, with 12.8% admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). CM was administered in 18.4% of all encounters. AKI resolved prior to hospital discharge for 69.1%. No association between intravenous CM administration and persistent AKI was observed after unadjusted multivariable logistic regression modeling (OR 1; 95% CI 0.89-1.11), propensity weighting (OR 0.93; 95% CI 0.83-1.05), and entropy balancing (OR 0.94; 95% CI 0.83-1.05). Sub-group analysis in those admitted to the ICU yielded similar results. Initiation of dialysis within 180 days was observed in 5.4% of the cohort. An association between CM administration and increased risk of dialysis within 180 days was not observed.

CONCLUSION

Among patients with pre-existing AKI, contrast administration was not associated with either persistent AKI at hospital discharge or initiation of dialysis within 180 days. Current consensus recommendations for use of intravenous CM in patients with stable renal disease may also be applied to patients with pre-existing AKI.

Marked bilateral global persistent CT nephrogram 48 h after percutaneous coronary intervention with contrast-induced nephropathy requiring transient hemodialysis with severe cardiac dysfunction

An iodinated contrast medium (CM) is generally excreted into the urinary tract within 3 min after administration. However, some cases present a persistent kidney nephrogram several hours after administration of CM. This phenomenon seems to be associated with the development and acceleration of contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN). A 74-year-old woman with chronic kidney disease and a very low ejection fraction (EF) (11%) was admitted to Sapporo Medical University Hospital because of heart failure. Coronary angiography revealed occlusion of the left anterior descending artery (LAD) on day 21 of admission. Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) to the LAD using 218 ml of iohexol was performed with a preventive measure for CIN by saline infusion on day 28. After PCI, she developed CIN requiring hemodialysis. Non-contrast computed tomography 48 h after PCI showed a marked bilateral persistent nephrogram with a cortical attenuation value of 168 HU. Vicarious excretion of CM was noted in the small bowel and colon. Her kidney function gradually recovered and hemodialysis was discontinued after ten sessions on day 43. The findings from this case suggest that a patient with a very low EF is at a high risk for CIN through persistent retention of the CM in the kidney cortex.

Predictive Value of N-Terminal Pro B-Type Natriuretic Peptide for Contrast-Induced Nephropathy Non-Recovery and Poor Outcomes Among Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

BACKGROUND

Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is a frequent complication in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). The degree of recovery of renal function from CIN may affect long-term prognosis. N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) is a simple but useful biomarker for predicting CIN. However, the predictive value of preprocedural NT-proBNP for CIN non-recovery and long-term outcomes in patients undergoing PCI remains unclear.Methods and Results: This study prospectively enrolled 550 patients with CIN after PCI between January 2012 and December 2018. CIN non-recovery was defined as persistent serum creatinine >25% or 0.5 mg/dL over baseline from 1 week to 12 months after PCI in patients who developed CIN. CIN non-recovery was observed in 40 (7.3%) patients. Receiver operating characteristic analysis indicated that the best NT-proBNP cut-off value for detecting CIN non-recovery was 876.1 pg/mL (area under the curve 0.768; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.731-0.803). After adjusting for potential confounders, multivariable analysis indicated that NT-proBNP >876.1 pg/mL was an independent predictor of CIN non-recovery (odds ratio 1.94; 95% CI 1.03-3.75; P=0.0042). Kaplan-Meier curves showed higher rates of long-term mortality among patients with CIN non-recovery than those with CIN recovery (Chi-squared=14.183, log-rank P=0.0002).

CONCLUSIONS

Preprocedural NT-proBNP was associated with CIN non-recovery among patients undergoing PCI. The optimal cut-off value for NT-proBNP to predict CIN non-recovery was 876.1 pg/mL.

A risk prediction model for contrast-induced nephropathy associated with gadolinium-based contrast agents

OBJECTIVE

This is the first study to explore the risk factors for nephropathy caused by gadolinium-based contrast agents and establish a prediction model to identify high-risk patients.

METHODS

A total of 1404 patients who received gadolinium-based contrast agents in our hospital were included. The participants were randomly assigned in a 7:3 ratio to the modeling and validation groups. The modeling group was divided into a contrast-induced nephropathy group and a non-contrast-induced nephropathy group. The clinical characteristics before the use of contrast agents were compared between the two groups. The risk factors for contrast-induced nephropathy were analyzed by logistic regression. A nomogram that could predict the incidence of contrast-induced nephropathy was plotted. The validation group was used to verify the predictive model.

RESULTS

The incidence of contrast-induced nephropathy caused by gadolinium-based contrast agents was 3.92% (55/1404). The logistic stepwise regression analysis showed that sex, systolic pressure (SBP), absolute neutrophil count, albumin, fasting blood glucose level, and furosemide use were significant predictors of contrast-induced nephropathy caused by gadolinium-based contrast agents. The above predictors were then included in the nomogram construction. The area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was 0.82 (p < 0.001). The specificity and sensitivity corresponding to the optimal cutoff point (0.039) based on the area under the ROC curve were 71.9% and 80.5%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Sex, SBP, absolute neutrophil count, albumin, fasting blood glucose levels, and furosemide use are significant predictors of contrast-induced nephropathy caused by gadolinium-based contrast agents. Therefore, the incidence of contrast-induced nephropathy may be estimated by the prediction model established in this study before the use of contrast agents.

Red blood cell distribution width-to-albumin ratio: a new inflammatory biomarker to predict contrast-induced nephropathy after emergency percutaneous coronary intervention

PURPOSE

Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) remains a dreaded complication in the cardiac diagnostic and interventional area. We investigated the relationship between red blood cell distribution width-to-albumin ratio (RAR) and CIN in elderly patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) undergoing emergency percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

METHODS

A total of 1532 elderly patients were enrolled and divided into the CIN group and the non-CIN group. The risk factors of CIN were evaluated by univariate and multivariate regression analysis. Receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to identify the best predictive value.

RESULTS

CIN occurred in 129 (8.42%) patients. Patients in the CIN group had significantly higher RAR than those in the non-CIN group (4.69 ± 0.73 vs. 3.18 ± 0.64, P < 0.001). In multivariate regression analysis, RAR was an independent risk factor for the development of CIN (OR: 1.506, 95% CI: 1.227-2.083, P = 0.025), along with age, creatinine, eGFR, hs-CRP and contrast agent dose. The AUC of RAR was 0.755 (95% CI 0.703-0.807), and an optimal cutoff value of 3.64 or higher predicted CIN with a sensitivity of 76.2% and specificity of 65.7%.

CONCLUSION

As a combined inflammatory-related index, RAR was an independent risk factor for the development of CIN in elderly patients with STEMI undergoing emergency PCI. The RAR could be a simple but relatively reliable parameter for identifying high-risk patients.

Early Acute Kidney Injury in Patients with Non-Traumatic Subarachnoid Hemorrhage who Undergo Catheter Angiography: Incidence, Associated Risk Factors and Impact on Outcome

OBJECTIVES

After subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), potential renal insults are numerous but the burden of early acute kidney injury (AKI) is unclear. We determined its incidence, rate of persistence, risk factors, and impact on patients' outcomes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients with non-traumatic SAH were retrospectively included if they underwent catheter angiography within the 48 h after their admission to the intensive care unit. Early AKI was defined according to Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcome (KDIGO) criteria, analyzed from the time of catheter angiography. Early AKI was considered as persistent if the KDIGO stage did not decrease between the 48th and the 60th hour.

RESULTS

Among 499 consecutive patients, early AKI (mostly oliguria) occurred in 132 (26%): stage 1, 2 and 3 in 72 (14%), 44 (9%), and 16 (3%) patients, respectively. It persisted in 36% of cases. Early AKI occurred more likely when SAH was severe or renal function was impaired at hospital admission: adjusted odds ratio of 2.76 [95% 1.77-4.30] and 3.32 [1.17-9.46], respectively. ICU and hospital lengths of stay were longer in patients who developed early AKI than in patients who did not: 16 [9-29] versus 12 [4-24] days (p = 0.0003) and 21 [14-43] versus 16 [11-32] days (p = 0.007), respectively. There was an independent link between early AKI and renal outcome (n = 274 in the model) but not with hospital mortality (n = 453).

CONCLUSIONS

One quarter of our population developed early AKI, mostly oliguria. It persisted beyond the 48th hour in one third of cases. The associated risk factors we identified were non-modifiable.

nicorandil in preventing contrast-induced nephropathy: a network meta-analysis

This study aimed to conduct a network meta-analysis (NMA) to compare the efficacy of brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) vs nicorandil for preventing contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN). Databases of Pubmed, Cochrane, Embase, Web of Science were searched by keywords for eligible studies of randomized controlled trials investigating different agents (BNP, nicorandil, nitroglycerin, intravenous saline) for preventing CIN. The outcomes included a change in serum creatinine level at 48 h and the incidence of CIN after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) or coronary angiography (CAG). A total of 13 studies with 3,462 patients were included. Compared with intravenous saline alone, except for nitroglycerin (odds ratio [OR]: 1.02, 95% CI [0.36-2.88]), the other drugs significantly reduced the CIN incidence with OR of 0.35 (95% CI [0.24-0.51]) for BNP, 0.52 (0.29, 0.94) for usual-dose nicorandil, 0.28 (0.19, 0.43) for double-dose nicorandil. BNP and double-dose nicorandil significantly decreased the change of serum creatinine (SCr) levels with mean difference (MD) of -6.98, (-10.01, -3.95) for BNP, -8.78, (-11.63, -5.93) for double-dose nicorandil. No significant differences were observed in the change of SCr levels for nitroglycerin (-4.97, [-11.46, 1.52]) and usual-dose nicorandil (-2.32, [-5.52, 0.89]) compared with intravenous saline alone. For double-dose nicorandil, the CIN incidence and the change of SCr level in group of 4-5 days treatment course were more than group of less than or equal to 24 h treatment course (OR of 1.48, [0.63-3.46] and MD of 2.48, [-1.96, 6.91]). In conclusion, BNP and double-dose nicorandil can have effects on preventing the incidence of CIN and double-dose nicorandil performed better than BNP. In double-dose nicorandil groups, a course of less than or equal to 24 h before and after procedure performed with better efficacy than a course of 4-5 days.

Clinical Utility of a Biomarker to Detect Contrast-Induced Acute Kidney Injury during Percutaneous Cardiovascular Procedures

INTRODUCTION

Contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI) is a major clinical complication of percutaneous cardiovascular procedures requiring iodinated contrast. Despite its relative frequency, practicing physicians are unlikely to identify or treat this condition.

METHODS

In a 2-round clinical trial of simulated patients, we examined the clinical utility of a urine-based assay that measures liver-type fatty acid-binding protein (L-FABP), a novel marker of CI-AKI. We sought to determine if interventional cardiologists' ability to diagnose and treat potential CI-AKI improved using the biomarker assay for 3 different patient types: pre-procedure, peri-procedure, and post-procedure patients.

RESULTS

154 participating cardiologists were randomly divided into either control or intervention. At baseline, we found no difference in the demographics or how they identified and treated potential complications of AKI, with both groups providing less than half the necessary care to their patients (46.4% for control vs. 47.6% for intervention, p = 0.250). The introduction of L-FABP into patient care resulted in a statistically significant improvement of 4.6% (p = 0.001). Compared to controls, physicians receiving L-FABP results were 2.9 times more likely to correctly identify their patients' risk for AKI (95% CI 2.1-4.0) and were more than twice as likely to treat for AKI by providing volume expansion and withholding nephrotoxic medications. We found the greatest clinical utility in the pre-procedure and peri-procedure settings but limited value in the post-procedure setting.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests L-FABP as a clinical marker for assessing the risk of potential CI-AKI, has clinical utility, and can lead to more accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Predictive value of plasma volume status for contrast-induced nephropathy in patients with heart failure undergoing PCI

Aims

Contrast‐induced nephropathy remains a common complication of coronary procedure and increases poor outcomes, especially in patients with heart failure. Plasma volume expansion relates to worsening prognosis of heart failure. We hypothesized that calculated plasma volume status (PVS) might provide predictive utility for contrast‐induced nephropathy in patients with heart failure undergoing elective percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Methods and results

We enrolled 441 patients with heart failure undergoing elective PCI from 2012 to 2018. Pre‐procedural estimated PVS by the Duarte's formula (Duarte‐ePVS) and Kaplan–Hakim formula (KH‐ePVS) were calculated for all patients. CIN was defined as an absolute serum creatinine (SCr) increase ≥0.5 mg/dL or a relative increase ≥25% compared with the baseline value within 48 h of contrast medium exposure. We assessed the association between PVS and CIN in patients with heart failure undergoing elective PCI. In 441 patients, 28 (6.3%) patients developed CIN. The median Duarte‐ePVS was 4.44 (3.87, 5.13) and the median KH‐ePVS was −0.03 (−0.09, 0.05). The best cutoff values for Duarte‐ePVS and KH‐ePVS to predict CIN were 4.64 (with 78.6% sensitivity and 61.7% specificity) and 0.04 (with 64.5% sensitivity and 75.5% specificity), respectively. After adjusting for potential confounding variables, KH‐ePVS > 0.04 [odds ratio (OR) 2.685, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.012–7.123, P = 0.047] remained significantly associated with CIN whereas Duarte‐ePVS was not.

Conclusions

Pre‐procedural KH‐ePVS is an independent risk factor for CIN in patients with heart failure undergoing elective PCI. The best cutoff point of KH‐ePVS for predicting CIN was 0.04.

Biomarkers for the early prediction of contrast-induced nephropathy after percutaneous coronary intervention in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is a complication of patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Promising biomarkers for the early prediction of CIN can significantly improve outcomes of these patients. We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library for studies. Trials reporting an area under the curve (AUC) for the utility of novel biomarkers in the early prediction of CIN in adults after PCI were included. In total, 42 studies comprising 11,984 adult patients undergoing PCI met the criteria. Four urinary biomarkers and four blood biomarkers were included. For urine biomarkers, the pooled AUCs for neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), interleukin-18 (IL-18), liver-type fatty acid-binding protein (L-FABP), and kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1) were 0.91 (95% CI 0.89-0.94), 0.79 (0.75-0.82), 0.78 (0.74-0.82), and 0.79 (0.76-0.83), respectively. The blood biomarkers NGAL, cystatin C, brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), and C-reactive protein (CRP) had pooled AUCs of 0.93 (0.91-0.95), 0.92 (0.89-0.94), 0.78 (0.74-0.81), and 0.75 (0.71-0.79), respectively. Subgroup analysis showed that blood NGAL in early CIN predictive time (<6 h) was more effective in predicting CIN. The efficiency of cystatin C in predicting CIN was reduced, whereas that of L-FABP was increased among chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients.

Contrast-induced nephropathy in a patient with type 2 diabetes and coronary artery disease: a case report

Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is the impairment of kidney function defined as a serum creatinine increase of 25% or 44 µmol/L compared with baseline, usually occurring 24 to 48 hours after the use of intravenous contrast. Important risk factors for CIN include female sex, advanced age (>65 years), type 2 diabetes (T2D), kidney disease, advanced heart failure, and intravascular volume depletion. We herein present a male patient with T2D, moderately reduced renal function, no albuminuria, and a positive echocardiography stress test. He underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), and two drug-eluting stents (in the left anterior descending coronary artery) and three bare-metal stents (in the right coronary artery) were implanted. Despite adequate rehydration (0.9% intravenous NaCl with 8.4% sodium bicarbonate) before and after the procedures, he developed irreversible kidney injury after coronary angiography and PCI. This case report demonstrates the unpredictable clinical course of CIN. Patients with T2D are at high risk for the occurrence of CIN, so careful clinical assessment is recommended with global renal functional reserve evaluation.

Involvement of necroptosis in contrast-induced nephropathy in a rat CKD model

BACKGROUND

The risk of contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is high in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, the mechanism of CIN in CKD is not fully understood. Here, we prepared a clinically relevant model of CIN and examined the role of necroptosis, which potentially cross-talks with autophagy, in CIN.

METHODS

In Sprague-Dawley rats, CKD was induced by subtotal nephrectomy (SNx, 5/6 nephrectomy) 4 weeks before induction of CIN. CIN was induced by administration of a contrast medium (CM), iohexol, following administration of indomethacin and N-omega-Nitro-L-arginine methyl ester. Renal function and tissue injuries were assessed 48 h after CM injection.

RESULTS

Serum creatinine (s-Cre) and BUN were increased from 0.28 ± 0.01 to 0.52 ± 0.02 mg/dl and from 15.1 ± 0.7 to 29.2 ± 1.2 mg/dl, respectively, after SNx alone. CM further increased s-Cre and BUN to 0.69 ± 0.03 and 37.2 ± 2.1, respectively. In the renal tissue after CM injection, protein levels of receptor-interacting serine/threonine-protein kinase (RIP) 1, RIP3, cleaved caspase 3, and caspase 8 were increased by 64 ~ 212%, while there was reduction in LC3-II and accumulation of p62. Necrostatin-1, an RIP1 inhibitor, administered before and 24 h after CM injection significantly suppressed elevation of s-Cre, BUN and urinary albumin levels, kidney injury molecule-1 expression and infiltration of CD68-positive macrophages in renal tissues after CM injection.

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that necroptosis of proximal tubular cells contributes to CIN in CKD and that suppression of protective autophagy by pro-necroptotic signaling may also be involved.

Predictive value of oxidant and antioxidant status for contrast-induced nephropathy after percutaneous coronary intervention for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction

BACKGROUND

Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is a life-threatening complication after primary percutaneous coronary intervention (p-PCI). Oxidative stress and inflammation may play an important role in the development of CIN.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to assess the relationship between total oxidant status, total antioxidant capacity, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), gamma-glutamyltransferase and uric acid (UA) in the development of CIN in patients presenting with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

METHODS

This prospective cohort study consisted of 341 patients with STEMI. Patients were divided into two groups: those with and those without CIN. Predictors of CIN were determined by multivariate regression analyses.

RESULTS

Multivariate regression analysis showed that initial glucose level, contrast media volume/glomerular filtration ratio (eGFR) ratio, hs-CRP, UA and oxidative status index were associated with the development of CIN in patients with STEMI.

CONCLUSION

The main finding of this study is that increased oxidative stress and inflammation parameters were associated with the development of CIN in patients with STEMI. Other independent predictors of CIN were contrast media volume/eGFR ratio, initial glucose level, UA and hs-CRP.

Glycosylated hemoglobin levels and the risk for contrast-induced nephropathy in diabetic patients undergoing coronary arteriography/percutaneous coronary intervention

Backgrounds

Diabetes mellitus is an independent risk factor for Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) in patients undergoing Coronary arteriography (CAG)/percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) is the gold standard to measure blood glucose control, which has important clinical significance for evaluating blood glucose control in diabetic patients in the past 3 months. This study aimed to assess whether preoperative HbA1c levels in diabetic patients who received CAG/PCI impacted the occurrence of postoperative CIN.

Methods

We reviewed the incidence of preoperative HbA1c and postoperative CIN in 670 patients with CAG/PCI from January 1, 2020 to October 30, 2020 and divided the preoperative HbA1c levels into 5 groups. Blood samples were collected at admission, 48 h and 72 h after operation to measure the Scr value of patients. Categorical variables were compared using a chi-square test, and continuous variables were compared using an analysis of variance. Fisher’s exact test was used to compare the percentages when the expected frequency was less than 5. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to exclude the influence of confounding factors, and P for trend was used to analyze the trend between HbA1c levels and the increased risk of CIN.

Results

Patients with elevated HbA1c had higher BMI, FBG, and LDL-C, and they were more often on therapy with hypoglycemic agents, Insulin and PCI. They also had higher basal, 48 h and 72 h Scr. The incidence of CIN in the 5 groups of patients were: 9.8, 11.9, 15.2, 25.3, 48.1%. (p < 0.0001) The multivariate analysis confirmed that in the main high-risk subgroup, patients with elevated HbA1C levels (≥8.8%) had a higher risk of CIN disease. Trend test showed the change of OR (1.000,1.248,1.553,2.625,5.829).

Conclusions

Studies have shown that in diabetic patients undergoing CAG/PCI, elevated HbA1c is independently associated with the risk of CIN, and when HbA1c > 9.5%, the incidence of CIN trends increase. Therefore, we should attach great importance to patients with elevated HbA1c at admission and take more active measures to prevent CIN.

Risk factors of contrast-induced nephropathy after percutaneous coronary intervention: a retrospective analysis

Objective

Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is a serious complication in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). This study aimed to analyze the potential risk factors for CIN in patients undergoing PCI.

Methods

Patients with ACS who underwent PCI treatment from January 2017 to January 2020 were selected. The patients’ characteristics and medical information were collected and compared.

Results

A total of 1331 patients undergoing PCI were included. The incidence of CIN was 15.33%. Logistic regression analyses showed that a left ventricular ejection fraction ≤45% (odds ratio [OR] 4.18, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.10–7.36), serum creatinine levels ≤60 μmol/L (OR 3.03, 95% CI 1.21–5.57), age ≥65 years (OR 2.75, 95% CI 1.32–4.60), log N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide levels ≥2.5 pg/mL (OR 2.31, 95% CI 1.18–5.13), uric acid levels ≥350 μmol/L (OR 2.29, 95% CI 1.04–5.30), emergency percutaneous intervention (OR 1.35, 95% CI 0.34–3.12), and triglyceride levels ≤1.30 mmol/L (OR 1.10, 95% CI 0.01–2.27) were independent risk factors for CIN in patients who underwent PCI.

Conclusions

Early prevention is required to reduce the occurrence of CIN in patients who undergo PCI and have risk factors for CIN.

Renal artery embolization for spontaneous hemorrhage in patients with acquired cystic kidney disease: A 20-year single-center experience

Objectives

To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of transcatheter arterial embolization for controlling spontaneous hemorrhage in patients with acquired cystic kidney disease (ACKD).

Methods

This retrospective study included 18 patients with ACKD (M:F=13:5; mean age, 56 years) who underwent renal artery embolization to control spontaneous hemorrhage between January 2001 and September 2020. The underlying etiology and clinical presentations were reviewed and previous computed tomography (CT) findings were analyzed. Furthermore, angiographic and embolization details, technical and clinical successes, and complications were assessed.

Results

Subcapsular, perirenal, and pararenal hematomas were observed on CT scans for all patients. Contrast extravasation was observed in 15 / 17 patients (88%) on contrast-enhanced CT scans. Angiography showed active bleeding in 14 patients (78%; contrast extravasation [n=6], pseudoaneurysm [n=3], and both [n=5]), suspicious bleeding in 1 (5%), and no bleeding in 3 (17%). The technical and clinical success rates were 100% and 94% (17/18), respectively. Total and partial embolization was performed in 14 (78%) and 4 (22%) cases, respectively. Subsequent surgical nephrectomy was required for one patient with clinical failure due to recurrent bleeding despite total embolization. Procedure-related complications included mild post-embolization syndrome in one patient and contrast-induced nephropathy in five patients (28%) without long-term complications.

Conclusions

Renal artery embolization is safe and effective for controlling spontaneous renal hemorrhage in patients with ACKD.

Predictive value of preprocedural albuminuria for contrast-induced nephropathy non-recovery in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention

Objective

The present study investigated the predictive value of albuminuria for contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) non-recovery in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Methods

We retrospectively enrolled 550 consecutive patients inflicted with CIN after PCI and reassessing kidney function among 1 week–12 months between January 2012 and December 2018. Patients were stratified into three groups according to urine albumin: negative group (urine dipstick negative), trace group (urine dipstick trace) and positive group (urine dipstick ≥ 1 +). The primary outcomes were CIN non-recovery (a decrease of serum creatinine which remains ≥ 25% or 0.5 mg/dL over baseline at 1 week–12 months after PCI in patients inflicted with CIN). The odds ratio (OR) of CIN non-recovery was analyzed by logistic regression using the negative urine dipstick group as the reference group.

Results

Overall, 88 (16.0%) patients had trace urinary albumin, 74 (13.5%) patients had positive urinary albumin and 40 (7.3%) patients developed CIN non-recovery. Patients with positive urinary albumin had significantly higher incidence of CIN non-recovery [negative (3.4%), trace (11.4%) and positive (23.0%), respectively; P < 0.0001]. Multivariate analysis showed that trace and positive urinary albumin were associated with an increased risk of CIN non-recovery (trace vs negative: OR 2.88, P = 0.022; positive vs negative: OR 2.99, P = 0.021). These associations were consistent in subgroups of patients stratified by CIN non-recovery risk predictors. And CIN non-recovery was associated with an increased risk of long-term mortality during a mean follow-up period of 703 days (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Preprocedural albuminuria was associated with CIN non-recovery in patients undergoing PCI.

Microfluidic-assisted synthesis of multifunctional iodinated contrast agent polymeric nanoplatforms

Contrast Induced Nephropathy is the most severe side-effect arising after non-ionic iodinated contrast agents (CAs) intravenous administration. The use of antioxidants (i.e., N-Acetylcysteine; NAC) is one of the attempted prevention approaches. Herein, we describe the microfluidic-assisted synthesis of iodinated polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) as new multifunctional blood pool CA. The aim of this research is to co-encapsulate Iohexol (IOX; iodinated CA) and NAC (preventive agent) into poly-D,L-lactide-co-glycolide (PLGA) and PEGylated-PLGA (PLGA-PEG) NPs to exploit CA diagnostic proprieties and NAC preventing antioxidant activity. A microfluidic-assisted nanoprecipitation protocol has been set-up for PLGA and PLGA-PEG NPs, evaluating the effect of formulation and microfluidic parameters by analysing the size, PDI and IOX and NAC encapsulation efficiency. The optimized NPs (PLGA-PEG, L:G 50:50, 5% PEG, Mw 90 kDa) formulated with a size of 67 ± 2.8 nm with PDI < 0.2, spherical shape, and an IOX and NAC encapsulation efficiency of 38% and 20%, respectively. The IOX and NAC encapsulation was confirmed by FTIR and DSC. In vitro release study showed an IOX retention into the polymeric matrix and NAC sustained release up to 24-48 h stating microfluidics as powerful tool for the formulation of multifunctional nanoplatforms. Finally, the protective effect of NPs and NAC were preliminary assessed on human kidney cells.

Circulating Exosomal miR-1-3p from Rats with Myocardial Infarction Plays a Protective Effect on Contrast-Induced Nephropathy via Targeting ATG13 and activating the AKT Signaling Pathway

Rationale: With the widespread development of the interventional technique for cardiovascular diseases and the widespread use of contrast medium (CM), the incidence of contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) has been increasing, which is associated with poor prognosis for cardiovascular diseases. This study aims to explore the effect of circulating exosomal microRNA from patients with myocardial infarction (MI) on CIN and related molecular mechanism. Methods: A rat MI model was established by ligating the left anterior descending coronary artery. Circulating exosomes were isolated from control (Exo-NC) and MI rats (Exo-MI) using a commercial kit. The in vivo and in vitro models of CIN were created using iodixanol. Reverse transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) was utilized to detect the expression of miR-1-3p. Western blot (WB) was used to detect the expression of exosomal surface markers, and apoptosis-related and autophagy-related proteins. The apoptosis rate was examined by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT)-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining and flow cytometry (FC). Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was utilized to observe the exosomes and autophagosomes. Rat kidney injury was assessed by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining and kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1) immunohistochemical staining. Renal function of rats was assessed by detecting the levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine (Cr). The dual luciferase reporter assay was performed to identify the target gene of miR-1-3p. Results: The treatment of CM induced NRK-52E cell damage, which manifested as enhanced cell autophagy and enhanced apoptosis. The Exo-MI treatment significantly inhibited the CM-induced autophagy and apoptosis of NRK-52E cells. Furthermore, the Exo-MI treatment increased the Bcl-2 expression, but decreased the Bax expression and the ratio of LC3II/LC3I. Furthermore, the results of the TUNEL staining and FC showed that Exo-MI can reduce apoptotic rate. Through TEM, it was found that Exo-MI reduced the number of autophagosomes in NRK-52E cells. The rescue experiments revealed that the function of Exo-MI is to inhibit the CM-induced autophagy and apoptosis of NRK-52E cells, which can be inhibited by the miR-1-3p inhibitor. Furthermore, it was found that the overexpression of miR-1-3p can also inhibit the CM-induced autophagy and apoptosis of NRK-52E cells. Through dual luciferase reporter assay, ATG13 was found to be the target of miR-1-3p. In addition, the overexpression of miR-1-3p significantly reversed the CM-induced decrease in phosphorylation level of AKT. Furthermore, ATG13 silencing can also inhibit the CM-induced autophagy and apoptosis of NRK-52E cells. In vivo, Exo-MI significantly alleviated the renal injury, reduced the renal fibrosis, and improved the renal function of CIN rats. Conclusion: The circulating exosomal miR-1-3p after MI inhibited the CM-induced apoptosis and autophagy of renal tubular epithelial cells, and improved the renal function of rats by targeting ATG13 and activating the AKT signaling pathway.

Evaluation of coenzyme Q10 combined with or without N-acetyl cysteine or atorvastatin for preventing contrast-induced kidney injury in diabetic rats

Combined antioxidants effect for prevention of contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) remains unclear. This study assessed the potential protective effects of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) alone or combined with N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) or atorvastatin against CIN in diabetic rats. Animals were randomly divided into five groups, including control and four disease groups with CIN and diabetes. Group 2 included diabetic rats with CIN. Groups 3-5 included diabetic rats that received CoQ10, CoQ10 and NAC, or CoQ10 and atorvastatin, respectively, before CIN induction. Serum, urine, and tissue were collected to evaluate renal protective effects of tested agents. Renal biomarkers, oxidative stress, and histopathological alterations were investigated. Rats with CIN showed significant renal impairment as revealed by the deleterious effects on kidney function and histology. While induction of CIN did not affect the renal levels of catalase, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, pretreatment of animals with CoQ10/NAC showed significant increase in GPx and catalase levels versus controls. Lastly, pretreatment with CoQ10/atorvastatin showed regenerative effect on distal tubules with mild kidney histology alterations relative to CIN rats. The combined use of CoQ10/atorvastatin could be a potential strategy to prevent CIN. However, future studies are warranted to test different combinations for longer prophylactic periods.

Prevention of Contrast-Induced Nephropathy by Inferior Vena Cava Ultrasonography-Guided Hydration in Chronic Heart Failure Patients

INTRODUCTION

Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is a common complication resulting from the administration of contrast media. This study was designed to determine whether inferior vena cava (IVC) ultrasonography (IVCU)-guided hydration can reduce the risk of CIN in chronic heart failure patients undergoing coronary angiography or coronary angiography with percutaneous coronary intervention compared with standard hydration.

METHODS

This prospective clinical trial enrolled 207 chronic heart failure patients from February 2016 to November 2017, who were randomly assigned to either the IVCU-guided hydration group (n = 104) or the routine hydration group (n = 103). In the IVCU-guided group, the hydration infusion rate was set according to the IVC diameter determined by IVCU, while the control group received intravenous infusion of 0.9% saline at 0.5 mL/(kg·h). Serum Cr was measured before and 48-72 h after the procedure. All patients were followed up for 18 months. The incidence of nephropathy and major adverse cardiovascular or cerebrovascular events (MACCEs) was also compared between the 2 groups.

RESULTS

Statistically significant difference between the 2 groups regarding the occurrence of CIN was observed (12.5 vs. 29.1%, p = 0.004). The hydration volume of the IVCU-guided group was significantly higher than that of the routine group (p < 0.001). In addition, patients receiving IVCU-guided hydration had significantly lower risk of developing MACCEs than patients in the control group during the 18-month follow-up (14.4 vs. 27.2%, p = 0.027).

CONCLUSION

Our findings support that IVCU-guided hydration is superior to standard hydration in prevention of CIN and may substantially reduce longtime composite major adverse events.

Impact of low serum hemoglobin on development of contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) following transarterial chemoembolisation (TACE)

OBJECTIVES

To assess the association between low hemoglobin (Hb) level and development of contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients after transarterial chemoembolization (TACE).

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed on 284 patients undergoing 503 consecutive sessions of TACE. Propensity score matching (PSM) analysis was used to reduce the influence of the difference in variables in normal and low hemoglobin groups. Risk factors of CIN were assessed by univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis. The relation between Hb level and CIN development was analyzed by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.

RESULTS

CIN developed in 5.6% patients after TACE. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that hypertension, Hb and serum creatinine (Scr) were independent risk factors for the development of post-TACE CIN. Grouped by normal or low Hb, the incidence of CIN was 14.6% (16/110) in the low Hb group and 3.4% (4/116) in the normal Hb group after PSM. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that Hb, lymphocyte count, and neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) were independent risk factors for the development of post-TACE CIN. The optimal cut-off point at which the Hb concentration resulted in a high probability of developing CIN was 105.5 g/L in males.

CONCLUSIONS

Low Hb is an independent risk factor for post-TACE CIN. Therefore, HCC patients with low Hb levels should be closely monitored before and during TACE.

Downregulating LncRNA XIST attenuated contrast-induced nephropathy injury via regulating miR-133a-3p/NLRP3 axis

Long non-coding RNA X-inactive specific transcript (LncRNA XIST) is involved in several diseases. However, the molecular mechanism of XIST and its relation with miR-133a-3p in contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) remained vague. Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were assigned to Control, Sham, and CIN groups at random (n = 15 for each group). Histological examination on the kidney tissues was performed using hematoxylin and eosin (HE) and periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) staining. Mean serum creatinine (SCr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) contents was measured by colorimetric microplate method. Levels of inflammatory cytokines were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The cells viability and apoptosis were respectively detected by MTT assay and flow cytometry. Target gene and potential binding sites between XIST, miR-133a-3p and NLR Family Pyrin Domain Containing 3 (NLRP3) were predicted using online databases and confirmed by dual-luciferase reporter assay. Relative mRNA and protein expressions of XIST, miR-133a-3p, NLRP3, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein (ASC) and Cleaved caspase-1 were measured with quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western blot as needed. In the rat CIN model, Ioversol induced kidney morphology changes, with increase on SCr and BUN contents, elevated levels of inflammatory cytokines and upregulated expressions of XIST, NLRP3, ASC and Cleaved caspase-1. Silencing XIST reversed the effects of Ioversol on cells. MiR-133a-3p could bind with XIST and target NLRP3, and downregulating miR-133a-3p reversed the effect of silencing XIST on Ioversol-treated cells. Moreover, downregulating XIST attenuated CIN injury via regulating miR-133a-3p/NLRP3 axis.

Comparing Trimetazidine with Allopurinol in Prevention of Contrast Induced Nephropathy After Coronary Angiography

Objectives

Contrast-induced nephropathy is considered a serious complication following coronary angiography increasing morbidity and mortality. Various drugs have been assessed to reduce the incidence of contrast-induced nephropathy. In this study, we compared trimetazidine and allopurinol as a pharmacological measure to reduce the incidence of contrast-induced nephropathy.

Methods

One hundred and twenty patients undergoing coronary angiography with baseline creatinine clearance more than 30 ml/minute were divided into three groups, 40 patients each. Group 1 received standard parenteral intravenous hydration in the form of isotonic saline at a rate of 1 ml/kg body weight per hour started 12 hours before angiography and up to 12 hours after the procedure. Group 2 received trimetazidine 35 mg twice per day for 72 hours starting 48 hours before the procedure in addition to intravenous hydration. Group 3 received allopurinol 300 mg once daily for 72 hours starting 48 hours before the procedure in addition to intravenous hydration. Serum creatinine and creatinine clearance were measured before and 72 hours after the procedure in addition to the volume of contrast media used.

Results

Trimetazidine and allopurinol failed to reduce contrast-induced nephropathy significantly. Among patients with contrast-induced nephropathy volume of contrast media was significantly higher.

Conclusion

Adding trimetazidine or allopurinol in addition to regular intravenous hydration with isotonic saline without targeting selectively high-risk patients did not reduce contrast-induced nephropathy following coronary angiography.

Findings on intraprocedural non-contrast computed tomographic imaging following hepatic artery embolization are associated with development of contrast-induced nephropathy

BACKGROUND

Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is a reversible form of acute kidney injury that occurs within 48-72 h of exposure to intravascular contrast material. CIN is the third leading cause of hospital-acquired acute kidney injury and accounts for 12% of such cases. Risk factors for CIN development can be divided into patient- and procedure-related. The former includes pre-existing chronic renal insufficiency and diabetes mellitus. The latter includes high contrast volume and repeated exposure over 72 h. The incidence of CIN is relatively low (up to 5%) in patients with intact renal function. However, in patients with known chronic renal insufficiency, the incidence can reach up to 27%.

AIM

To examine the association between renal enhancement pattern on non-contrast enhanced computed tomographic (CT) images obtained immediately following hepatic artery embolization with development of CIN.

METHODS

Retrospective review of all patients who underwent hepatic artery embolization between 01/2010 and 01/2011 (n = 162) was performed. Patients without intraprocedural CT imaging (n = 51), combined embolization/ablation (n = 6) and those with chronic kidney disease (n = 21) were excluded. The study group comprised of 84 patients with 106 procedures. CIN was defined as 25% increase above baseline serum creatinine or absolute increase ≥ 0.5 mg/dL within 72 h post-embolization. Post-embolization CT was reviewed for renal enhancement patterns and presence of renal artery calcifications. The association between non-contrast CT findings and CIN development was examined by Fisher’s Exact Test.

RESULTS

CIN occurred in 11/106 (10.3%) procedures (Group A, n = 10). The renal enhancement pattern in patients who did not experience CIN (Group B, n = 74 with 95/106 procedures) was late excretory in 93/95 (98%) and early excretory (EE) in 2/95 (2%). However, in Group A, there was a significantly higher rate of EE pattern (6/11, 55%) compared to late excretory pattern (5/11) (P < 0.001). A significantly higher percentage of patients that developed CIN had renal artery calcifications (6/11 vs 20/95, 55% vs 21%, P = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

A hyperdense renal parenchyma relative to surrounding skeletal muscle (EE pattern) and presence of renal artery calcifications on immediate post-HAE non-contrast CT images in patients with low risk for CIN are independently associated with CIN development.

Iodinated contrast medium: Is there a re(n)al problem? A clinical vignette-based review

As we were taught, for decades, that iodinated contrast-induced acute kidney injury should be dreaded, considerable efforts were made to find out effective measures in mitigating the renal risk of iodinated contrast media. Imaging procedures were frequently either downgraded (unenhanced imaging) or deferred as clinicians felt that the renal risk pertaining to contrast administration outweighed the benefits of an enhanced imaging. However, could we have missed the point? Among the abundant literature about iodinated contrast-associated acute kidney injury, recent meaningful advances may help sort out facts from false beliefs. Hence, there is increasing evidence that the nephrotoxicity directly attributable to modern iodinated CM has been exaggerated. Failure to demonstrate a clear benefit from most of the tested prophylactic measures might be an indirect consequence. However, the toxic potential of iodinated contrast media is well established experimentally and should not be overlooked completely when making clinical decisions. We herein review these advances in disease and pathophysiologic understanding and the associated clinical crossroads through a typical case vignette in the critical care setting.

Contrast-induced nephropathy and oxidative stress: mechanistic insights for better interventional approaches

Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) or contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI) is an iatrogenic acute kidney injury observed after intravascular administration of contrast media for intravascular diagnostic procedures or therapeutic angiographic intervention. High risk patients including those with chronic kidney disease (CKD), diabetes mellitus with impaired renal function, congestive heart failure, intraarterial intervention, higher volume of contrast, volume depletion, old age, multiple myeloma, hypertension, and hyperuricemia had increased prevalence of CIN. Although CIN is reversible by itself, some patients suffer this condition without renal recovery leading to CKD or even end-stage renal disease which required long term renal replacement therapy. In addition, both CIN and CKD have been associated with increasing of mortality. Three pathophysiological mechanisms have been proposed including direct tubular toxicity, intrarenal vasoconstriction, and excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), all of which lead to impaired renal function. Reports from basic and clinical studies showing potential preventive strategies for CIN pathophysiology including low- or iso-osmolar contrast media are summarized and discussed. In addition, reports on pharmacological interventions to reduce ROS and attenuate CIN are summarized, highlighting potential for use in clinical practice. Understanding this contributory mechanism could pave ways to improve therapeutic strategies in combating CIN.

Low contrast volume dual-energy CT of the chest: Quantitative and qualitative assessment

PURPOSE

To evaluate the image quality of chest CT performed on dual-energy scanners using low contrast volume for routine chest (DECT-R) and pulmonary angiography (DECTPA) protocols.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective study included dual-energy CT scans of chest performed with low contrast volume in 84 adults (34M:50F; Age 69 ± 16 years: Weight 71 ± 16kg). There were 42 patients with DECT-R and 42 patients with DECT-PA protocols. Images were reviewed by two thoracic radiologists. Qualitative assessment was done on a four-point scale, for subjective assessment of contrast enhancement and artifacts (1 = Excellent, 2 = optimal, 3 = suboptimal, and 4 = Limited) in the pulmonary arteries and thoracic aorta, on virtual monoenergetic and material decomposition iodine (MDI) images. Quantitative assessment was performed by measuring the CT (Hounsfield) units in aorta and pulmonary arteries. The estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated before and after CT scans. Two tailed student's t-test was performed to assess the significance of findings, and strength of correlation between readers was determined by Cohen's kappa test.

RESULTS

DECT-PA and DECT-R demonstrated excellent/adequate contrast density within the pulmonary arteries (up to segmental branch), and aorta. There was no suboptimal or limited examination. There was strong interobserver agreement for arterial enhancement in pulmonary arteries (kappa = 0.62-0.89) and for thoracic aorta (kappa = 0.62-0.94). Pulmonary emboli were seen in 3/42(7%) in DECT-R and in 5/42(12%) in DECT-PA. There was no significant change in eGFR before and after IV contrast injection (p = 0.46-0.52).

CONCLUSION

DECT-R and DECT-PA performed with low contrast volume provide diagnostic quality opacification of the pulmonary vessels and aorta vessels.

Advances in the pathogenesis and prevention of contrast-induced nephropathy

With the increasing application of medical imaging contrast materials, contrast-induced nephropathy has become one of the leading causes of iatrogenic renal insufficiency. The underlying mechanism is associated with renal medullary hypoxia, direct toxicity of contrast agents, oxidative stress, apoptosis, immune/inflammation and epigenetic regulation in contrast-induced nephropathy. Up to date, there is no effective therapy for contrast-induced nephropathy, and thus risk predication and effective preventive strategies are keys to reduce the occurrence of contrast-induced nephropathy. It was found that the proper use of contrast medium, personalized hydration, and high-dose statins may reduce the occurrence of contrast-induced nephropathy, while antioxidants have not shown significant therapeutic benefits. Additionally, the role of remote ischemia preconditioning and vasodilators in the prevention of contrast-induced nephropathy needs further study. This review aims to discuss the incidence, pathogenesis, risk prediction, and preventive strategies for contrast-induced nephropathy.

Study of saline optical coherence tomography-guided percutaneous coronary intervention (SOCT-PCI Study)

AIM

The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of heparinised saline as flushing media for frequency-domain optical coherence tomography (FD-OCT) image acquisition during percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) optimisation.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Twenty-seven patients undergoing FD-OCT-guided PCI were enrolled. Heparinised saline was injected into the coronary during FD-OCT image acquisition. A total of 118 runs were analysed for image quality and diagnostic value. FD-OCT runs were categorised as follows: good runs (GRs), clinically usable runs (CURs) and clinically not usable runs (NURs); GRs and CURs were combined as clinically effective runs (ERs). Saline FD-OCT enabled visualisation of all possible coronary lesions. Of the 118 runs analysed, 61%, 27.1%, 11.9% and 88.1% were GRs, CURs, NURs and ERs, respectively. Sixty-one percent of total runs were left coronary system (LCS) and 39% were right coronary system (RCS) runs. Among LCS runs, 55.6%, 30.6%, 13.8% and 86.2% were GRs, CURs, NURs and ERs, respectively. Among RCS runs, 69.6%, 21.7%, 8.7% and 91.3% were GRs, CURs, NURs and ERs, respectively.

CONCLUSION

This is the first study to demonstrate the technical feasibility of isolated saline FD-OCT for PCI optimisation.

CaMKII as a key regulator of contrast-induced nephropathy through mPTP opening in HK-2 cells

Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN), refers to acute kidney injury observed after administration of contrast media during angiographic or other medical procedures such as urography, and accounting for 12% of all causes of acute renal failure, but no specific prevention or treatment strategy exists for its obscure pathophysiology. The aim of our study was to explore the influence of calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) in CIN by using HK-2 cells. Knockdown of CypD was achieved by lentivirus, and CaMKII overexpression by transfection with the plasmid. In this study, we have demonstrated that CypD-mediated mPTP opening triggered mitochondrial dysfunction and tubule cells apoptosis in CIN. We also found that iohexol treatment was associated with mitochondrial ROS overloading, ATP depletion and LDH release. Inhibition of CypD with the pharmacologic inhibitor or knockdown of CypD abrogated mPTP opening, oxidative stress, mitochondria damage, and cell apoptosis induced by iohexol. In addition, we found that inhibition of the CaMKII activity alleviated iohexol-induced CypD expression, whereas also decreased mPTP opening, oxidative stress, mitochondria damage, and cell apoptosis, similarly to the inhibition of CypD did. Moreover, CaMKII overexpression enhanced iohexol-induced mPTP opening, mitochondrial damage and renal tubular epithelial cells apoptosis. These findings first identified the novel role of CaMKII in iohexol-induced tubular cells apoptosis and delineated the CaMKII-CypD/mPTP pathway during contrast-induced tubular cell damage. Hence, these results could provide a new strategy for CIN protection.

AdipoRon, an adiponectin receptor agonist, protects contrast-induced nephropathy by suppressing oxidative stress and inflammation via activation of the AMPK pathway

BACKGROUND

Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN), a complication caused by using contrast medium during diagnostic and interventional procedures, occurs frequently and lacks effective treatment. AdipoRon, the agonist of adiponectin receptors, has been shown to benefit many organs including the kidney. This study aimed to investigate the role of AdipoRon in treating CIN.

METHODS

CIN model was established via infusing iopromide (1.8 g/kg) in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats; NRK52E cells were treated with iopromide (5-50 μM). Renal function, renal histopathology, levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release, cell vitality, oxidative stress and inflammatory markers were measured to evaluate the protective effects of AdipoRon. The level of pAMPK/AMPK was determined by western blot.

RESULTS

AdipoRon (50 mg/kg) significantly reversed serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine clearance and urinary kidney injury molecule-1 levels induced by iopromide in SD rats. Besides, it decreased the renal injury score and apoptosis of renal cells. AdipoRon also reversed the changes of antioxidant markers, pro-oxidant and inflammatory markers induced by iopromide. Moreover, the in vitro studies showed that AdipoRon decreased LDH release and increased cell vitality in NRK52E cells treated with iopromide. Then, we demonstrated that the protection of AdipoRon was accompanied by augmented AMPK phosphorylation. Both in vivo and in vitro studies demonstrated that compound c, an AMPK inhibitor, reversed the AdipoRon-mediated improvement in the CIN model.

CONCLUSION

Our data indicate that AdipoRon protects against the CIN by suppressing oxidative stress and inflammation via activating the AMPK pathway, showing that AdipoRon might be a potential candidate for the prevention and therapy of CIN.

Remote Ischemic Preconditioning Reduces the Risk of Contrast-Induced Nephropathy in Patients with Moderate Renal Impairment Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Angiography: A Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND/AIMS

This meta-analysis evaluated the effects of remote ischemic preconditioning (RIPC) on the risk of contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention/coronary angiography (PCI/CA).

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that assessed the effect of RIPC on CIN in patients undergoing PCI/CA. The main outcomes of interest were the incidence of CIN 48-72 h after CA, the levels of serum creatinine, cystatin C, neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), mortality, and requirement of hemodialysis and rehospitalization. The analysis was conducted using the random-effect model due to the expected heterogeneity among different studies.

RESULTS

In total, 16 trials covering 2,048 patients were identified. By assessing the methodological quality of the included studies through the Coch-rane risk of bias, we found that of the 16 RCTs, 3 had a low risk of bias, 6 a high, and 7 an unclear risk. The application of RIPC decreased the incidence of CIN (relative risk, RR, 0.50, 95% confidence interval, CI, 0.39-0.65; p < 0.001). Subgroup analyses showed that RIPC decreased the incidence of CIN in patients with eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 (RR 0.53, 95% CI 0.38-0.75; p < 0.001) but not in patients with eGRF ≥60 mL/min/1.73 m2 (RR 0.82, 95% CI 0.35-1.94; p = 0.66) at baseline. Furthermore, the increase in serum creatinine was significantly lower in patients with RIPC compared to control patients (standardized mean difference -1.41, 95% CI -2.46 to -0.35; p = 0.009).

CONCLUSIONS

Based on 16 RCTs, this meta-analysis shows that RIPC can reduce the risk of CIN in patients with moderate renal impairment undergoing PCI/CA. However, this needs to be confirmed by further high-quality evidence.

Contrast Media-Different Types of Contrast Media, Their History, Chemical Properties, and Relative Nephrotoxicity

History of contrast dates back to the 1890s, with the invention of the radiograph. Nephrotoxicity has been a main limitation in ideal contrast media (CM). High-osmolar contrast media no longer are in clinical use due to overwhelming evidence supporting greater nephrotoxicity with these CM compared with current CM. Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) remains a common cause of in-hospital acute kidney injury. The choice contrast agent is determined mainly by cost and institution practice. This review focuses on the history, chemical properties, and experimental and clinical studies on the various groups of CM and their role in CIN.

High White Blood Cell Count Is a Risk Factor for Contrast-Induced Nephropathy following Mechanical Thrombectomy for Acute Ischemic Stroke

BACKGROUND

Although mechanical thrombectomy is a standard endovascular therapy for patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS), the incidence of and risk factors for contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) following mechanical thrombectomy are infrequently reported.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence and risk factors for CIN following mechanical thrombectomy for AIS, and whether the incidence of CIN is related to a poor prognosis.

METHODS

We examined consecutive patients who underwent a mechanical thrombectomy in the period from January 2014 to March 2018. The patients' clinical backgrounds, treatments, and clinical prognoses were analyzed. CIN was defined as an increase in the serum creatinine level of ≥44.2 μmol/L (0.5 mg/dL) or 25% above baseline within 72 h after exposure to the contrast medium.

RESULTS

In total, 80 patients (46 men and 34 women aged 74.5 ± 11.5 years) who met our inclusion criteria were analyzed. CIN occurred in 8.8% (7/80) of the patients following mechanical thrombectomy. Although no patients needed permanent dialysis, 1 required temporary dialysis. The median amount of contrast medium was 109 mL. A comparison between the groups with and without CIN showed a significant difference in white blood cell (WBC) count at the time of admission (11.6 ± 2.7 × 103/μL and 8.1 ± 2.7 × 103/μL; p < 0.01) and the cut-off value was 9.70 × 103/μL. In multivariate analysis, contrast volume/estimated glomerular filtration rate by creatinine and WBC count were significantly associated with the incidence of CIN, with odds ratios of 1.64 (95% CI 1.02-2.65; p = 0.04) and 1.61 (95% CI 1.15-2.25; p < 0.01), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

This study found that CIN occurred in 8.8% of patients with AIS following mechanical thrombectomy. High WBC count was associated with an increased risk of CIN and may be helpful for predicting CIN.