Abstract
Contrast-induced nephropathy is a common clinical problem associated with significant morbidity and mortality. It is the third leading cause of acute renal failure in hospitalized patients.
Most recently, the incidence of contrast-induced nephropathy is even on increase. One of the possible explanations for this fact is the increasing number of different diagnostic and interventional contrast procedures.
In addition to the "self-toxicity" of the used contrast media, development of CIN is augmented by several other factors, the most important being the current hydration of the patient, or the presence of dehydration. Other risk factors represent senior age, concomitant use of drugs with a renal toxicity potential and the presence of diabetes mellitus.
There are many reports concerning several substances and their protective effects on the development of CIN (e.g. acetylcysteine); however, application of adequate and well-timed hydration regime and reasonable indication and performance of interventional contrast procedures seem to be the only preventive measures, which really have the potential to reduce the presence of CIN.