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Radiocontrast Nephropathy

📋 Key Information Summary

📋
  • Radiocontrast nephropathy (RCN), also termed contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI), is defined as a rise in serum creatinine (sCr) ≥26.5 µmol/L within 48 hours or a ≥50% increase within 7 days of iodinated contrast administration, after excluding other causes.
  • Pre-existing chronic kidney disease (eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m²) is the single strongest risk factor; risk increases proportionally with declining renal function.
  • Diabetes mellitus, particularly with concurrent CKD, dehydration, heart failure (EF <40%), nephrotoxic drug exposure (NSAIDs, aminoglycosides, ACE inhibitors), and large contrast volumes are major independent risk factors.
  • The Mehran score is the most validated pre-procedural risk-scoring tool; a score ≥16 confers >25% risk of CI-AKI and >12% risk of requiring dialysis.
  • Isotonic intravenous crystalloid (0.9% sodium chloride or balanced crystalloid such as Plasma-Lyte 148®) at 1–1.5 mL/kg/hr for 6–12 hours pre- and post-procedure is the single most evidence-based prevention strategy.
  • Use the lowest effective dose of low-osmolar (iohexol, iopamidol) or iso-osmolar (iodixanol) contrast; a contrast volume >100 mL or a contrast volume/eGFR ratio >1.1 significantly raises CI-AKI risk.
  • N-acetylcysteine (NAC, Mucomyst®) 1200 mg PO BD for 48 hours (2 doses pre + 2 post) is widely used in Australian practice; evidence is mixed (AMACING, PRESERVE trials) but the safety profile and low cost support continued use in high-risk patients.
  • Avoid nephrotoxic agents (NSAIDs, aminoglycosides) for ≥48 hours before and after contrast exposure where clinically feasible.
  • Withhold metformin for 48 hours post-contrast if eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73 m² or if CI-AKI develops, to prevent metformin-associated lactic acidosis (MALA).
  • Serum creatinine should be measured at baseline, 48 hours, and 5–7 days post-contrast; early detection of CI-AKI enables prompt nephrology referral.
  • Consider alternative imaging (MRI without gadolinium, ultrasound, low-dose CT without contrast) when the risk of CI-AKI outweighs diagnostic benefit.
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients have disproportionately higher rates of CKD and diabetes, placing them at elevated CI-AKI risk; culturally safe counselling and point-of-care eGFR testing in remote settings are essential.
  • Most CI-AKI is self-limiting (nadir sCr at day 3–5, recovery by day 7–10), but severe cases can cause tubular necrosis requiring temporary dialysis and are associated with increased long-term cardiovascular events and mortality.

Introduction & Australian Epidemiology

Radiocontrast nephropathy (RCN), increasingly referred to as contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI), represents the third most common cause of hospital-acquired AKI after hypoperfusion and nephrotoxic medications. It is defined as an acute decline in renal function occurring within 48 hours of intravascular iodinated contrast administration, in the absence of an alternative aetiology.

In Australia, approximately 80 million diagnostic imaging and interventional procedures involving iodinated contrast are performed annually across public and private sectors. With the ageing population and rising burden of chronic kidney disease (CKD) — affecting an estimated 1.7 million Australians (AIHW, 2023) — the population at risk of CI-AKI continues to expand. The incidence of CI-AKI varies from 2–5% in patients with normal renal function to 20–50% in those with pre-existing CKD complicated by diabetes.

CI-AKI carries significant clinical and economic consequences. It is associated with prolonged hospital stays (median 3–7 additional days), increased in-hospital mortality (adjusted OR 4.0–6.0 for dialysis-requiring CI-AKI), and accelerated progression of CKD to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). Australian data from the ANZDATA registry and state-based hospital morbidity datasets indicate that CI-AKI contributes to approximately 10–15% of AKI episodes requiring renal replacement therapy in metropolitan centres.

This guideline provides an evidence-based framework for risk assessment, prevention, diagnosis, and management of CI-AKI in the Australian healthcare setting, aligned with National Safety and Quality Health Service (NSQHS) Standards, the Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) 2024 update, and Australian Therapeutic Guidelines.

Radiocontrast Nephropathy clinical infographic — pathophysiology, clinical clues, diagnosis, imaging, and management
Tap or click image to enlarge — Radiocontrast Nephropathy: pathophysiology, clinical clues, diagnosis, imaging, and management.
Radiocontrast Nephropathy infographic, full size

Pathophysiology & Risk Factors

Pathophysiology

CI-AKI results from the synergistic interaction of three principal mechanisms affecting the renal medulla, which is normally operating at the hypoxic threshold (pO₂ 10–20 mmHg):

  • Medullary vasoconstriction: Iodinated contrast triggers an initial transient vasodilation followed by sustained vasoconstriction of the vasa recta via endothelin, adenosine, and angiotensin II, reducing medullary blood flow by up to 50%.
  • Medullary hypoxia and tubular injury: Contrast-induced increases in oxygen consumption (from active tubular reabsorption of the osmotic load) combined with reduced delivery create severe regional hypoxia, leading to proximal tubular epithelial cell vacuolisation, apoptosis, and necrosis — a pattern termed osmotic nephropathy with iohexol and tubular necrosis with high-dose iodixanol.
  • Direct cytotoxicity and reactive oxygen species (ROS): Contrast media directly generate superoxide and hydroxyl radicals, causing peroxidation of membrane lipids, mitochondrial dysfunction, and complement activation within tubular cells.
  • Intratubular obstruction: Precipitation of Tamm–Horsfall mucoprotein with contrast in the distal nephron contributes to intratubular cast formation and obstruction, particularly in dehydrated states.

Major Risk Factors

Risk Factor Mechanism / Notes Relative Risk
Pre-existing CKD (eGFR <60) Reduced medullary reserve, impaired contrast excretion 5.5–15×
Diabetes mellitus + CKD Microvascular disease amplifies medullary ischaemia 8–20×
Dehydration / hypovolaemia Increased contrast viscosity in tubular lumen, enhanced vasoconstriction 3–5×
Heart failure (EF <40%) Reduced renal perfusion, RAAS activation 3–4×
Contrast volume >100 mL Dose-dependent nephrotoxicity 2–5×
Contrast volume/eGFR ratio >1.1 Stronger predictor than absolute volume alone 4–6×
Age >70 years Declining nephron mass, comorbidity burden 2–3×
Concurrent nephrotoxins (NSAIDs, aminoglycosides) Additive tubular injury 2–4×
Multiple myeloma Light-chain precipitation with contrast Variable
Previous CI-AKI episode Residual nephron loss 6–10×

Mehran Risk Score for CI-AKI

The Mehran score assigns points to pre-procedural variables to stratify risk prior to percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) or other intra-arterial contrast procedures. It has also been validated for intravenous contrast studies.

Variable Points
Hypotension (SBP <80 mmHg requiring inotropes ≥1 hr)5
Intra-aortic balloon pump5
CHF (EF <40% or pulmonary oedema)5
Age >75 years4
Anaemia (Hct <39% M, <36% F)3
Diabetes mellitus3
Contrast volume (per 100 mL)1 per 100 mL
eGFR 40–602
eGFR 20–394
eGFR <20 or dialysis6
Low Risk
Score ≤5
CI-AKI risk <7.5%. Risk of dialysis <0.04%.
Setting: Standard hydration; outpatient procedure
Moderate Risk
Score 6–10
CI-AKI risk 14–20%. Risk of dialysis 0.12–1.1%.
Setting: IV hydration protocol; NAC; nephrology liaison
High Risk
Score ≥16
CI-AKI risk >26%. Risk of dialysis >12%.
Setting: Aggressive hydration; consider alternative imaging; nephrology consult

Prevention Strategies

⚠️
Critical safety point: Intravenous volume expansion remains the single most effective, evidence-based strategy for CI-AKI prevention. No pharmacological agent has demonstrated consistent benefit in the absence of adequate hydration. Always assess volume status before contrast administration.

Intravenous Fluid Therapy — First-Line Prevention

💧
Sodium Chloride 0.9%
Normal Saline · Isotonic Crystalloid
Regimen 1–1.5 mL/kg/hr IV for 6–12 hours pre-procedure and 6–12 hours post-procedure (total ≥12–18 hrs hydration)
Max rate 3 mL/kg/hr for ≤4 hrs if urgent pre-hydration needed
Renal adjustment Use lower end of dose range (1 mL/kg/hr) in CKD 4–5 or heart failure; monitor fluid balance closely
PBS status ✔ PBS General Benefit
💧
Plasma-Lyte 148® (Balanced Crystalloid)
Baxter · Isotonic Balanced Crystalloid
Regimen 1–1.5 mL/kg/hr IV for 6–12 hours pre- and post-procedure
Advantage Avoids hyperchloraemic metabolic acidosis; may be preferred in CKD ( PRESERVE trial showed non-inferior to NaCl 0.9%)
PBS status ✔ PBS General Benefit

The PRESERVE trial (N Engl J Med 2018) demonstrated that sodium bicarbonate was not superior to sodium chloride, and NAC was not superior to placebo, for prevention of CI-AKI. However, balanced crystalloid showed non-inferiority to normal saline with potential advantage regarding acid–base balance. Australian practice typically uses either 0.9% NaCl or Plasma-Lyte 148® based on local availability.

N-Acetylcysteine (NAC)

💊
N-Acetylcysteine (NAC)
Mucomyst® · Acetadote® · Antioxidant / Mucolytic
Adult dose 1200 mg PO BD (2 doses pre-procedure + 2 doses post-procedure = 48-hour course)
IV alternative 150 mg/kg in 500 mL NaCl 0.9% IV over 30 min pre-procedure, then 50 mg/kg over 4 hrs post-procedure
Paediatric dose Limited evidence; 14 mg/kg PO BD if used off-label
Side effects Nausea, vomiting, flushing; IV route risk of anaphylactoid reaction
Evidence AMACING (2018), PRESERVE (2018) — no definitive benefit; however meta-analyses suggest possible benefit in high-risk CKD subgroups; widely used in Australian practice due to favourable safety profile and low cost
PBS status ⚠ PBS Restricted Benefit (IV formulation); OTC oral

Contrast Agent Selection & Volume Minimisation

  • Low-osmolar contrast media (LOCM): Iohexol (Omnipaque®), iopamidol (Isovue®) — standard of care in Australia; lower nephrotoxicity than high-osmolar agents.
  • Iso-osmolar contrast media (IOCM): Iodixanol (Visipaque®) — iso-osmolar with plasma; may offer marginal advantage in diabetic CKD (NEPHRIC trial); higher viscosity requires slower injection rates.
  • Volume minimisation: Target contrast volume <100 mL where feasible. Calculate the maximum safe volume using the formula: Safe volume (mL) = 5 × body weight (kg) / sCr (mg/dL), or use the contrast volume/eGFR ratio target of <1.1.
  • Low-dose protocols: Use low-kVp CT angiography (80–100 kVp), automated tube current modulation, and iterative reconstruction algorithms to reduce contrast volume by 30–50%.

Agents to Withhold or Avoid

🚫
  • Metformin: Withhold for 48 hours post-contrast if eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73 m² or if CI-AKI develops. Resume only after renal function confirmed stable. Risk: metformin-associated lactic acidosis (MALA) in setting of AKI.
  • NSAIDs: Cease ≥24 hours pre-contrast and avoid for ≥48 hours post-contrast. Risk: additive vasoconstriction, prostaglandin inhibition reduces medullary perfusion.
  • ACE inhibitors / ARBs: Consider withholding on the day of procedure in high-risk patients (eGFR <30, volume-depleted). Evidence is mixed; the RAAS blockade removal reduces efferent arteriolar tone and may reduce GFR acutely. Restart when euvolaemic and creatinine stable.
  • Aminoglycosides: Avoid concurrent administration; if essential, ensure therapeutic drug monitoring and aggressive hydration.
  • SGLT2 inhibitors: Withhold ≥3 days pre-contrast due to euglycaemic DKA risk in setting of reduced oral intake/procedural fasting.

Agents NOT Recommended for CI-AKI Prevention

  • Sodium bicarbonate infusion — no superiority over NaCl 0.9% in PRESERVE trial; not routinely recommended.
  • Furosemide or mannitol — potentially harmful (volume depletion); contraindicated.
  • Dopamine or fenoldopam — no benefit; not recommended by KDIGO.
  • Theophylline / aminophylline — inconsistent evidence; not routinely recommended.
  • Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) — small trials insufficient to support routine use.
  • Statins — some evidence of pleiotropic anti-inflammatory effect; not yet standard of care for CI-AKI prevention alone.

Diagnosis & Clinical Course

Diagnostic Criteria (KDIGO 2024)

CI-AKI is diagnosed when any of the following occur within 48 hours of contrast exposure, after excluding other causes:

  • Absolute increase in serum creatinine ≥26.5 µmol/L (≥0.3 mg/dL) within 48 hours, OR
  • Relative increase in serum creatinine ≥50% (1.5× baseline) within 7 days, OR
  • Urine output <0.5 mL/kg/hr for ≥6 hours (in context of known contrast exposure)

Typical Clinical Course

0–24 hours
Serum creatinine begins to rise. Patient may be asymptomatic. Urine output typically preserved initially.
48–72 hours
Peak rise in serum creatinine (typically 30–50% above baseline in mild cases). May see oliguria in severe cases. Nausea, fatigue possible.
3–5 days
Nadir of renal function. In severe cases: fluid overload, hyperkalaemia, metabolic acidosis may manifest. Dialysis may be required (estimated <1% of all CI-AKI cases, up to 12% in very-high-risk patients).
7–10 days
Gradual recovery of renal function in majority of cases. Serum creatinine returns to within 10% of baseline in most patients.
10–14 days
Complete recovery expected in >80% of cases. Persistent elevation suggests pre-existing unrecognised CKD or irreversible tubular injury.
⚠️
Differential diagnoses to exclude: Atheroembolic renal disease (cholesterol crystal embolisation — classically presents 1–4 weeks post-catheterisation with livedo reticularis, eosinophilia, low complement), haemodynamic AKI, concurrent nephrotoxin exposure, urinary tract obstruction, and rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis.

Investigations

Essential
Serum creatinine & eGFR
Baseline, 48 hours, and 5–7 days post-contrast. MBS Item 66500. Calculate eGFR using CKD-EPI equation.
Essential
Serum urea & electrolytes
Monitor potassium, bicarbonate, phosphate. MBS Item 66512.
Available
Full blood count
Assess for anaemia (Mehran score), eosinophilia (atheroembolic disease). MBS Item 65070.
Available
Urinalysis & microscopy
Muddy brown granular casts suggest acute tubular necrosis. Exclude active sediment of glomerulonephritis. MBS Item 69300.
Available
Serum NGAL (Neutrophil Gelatinase-Associated Lipocalin)
Rising role as early biomarker (detectable at 2–6 hrs post-contrast vs 24–48 hrs for creatinine). Available at major tertiary centres; not yet MBS-listed.
Available
Urinary [TIMP-2]·[IGFBP7] (NephroCheck®)
Cell-cycle arrest biomarkers; FDA-approved for AKI risk stratification; limited Australian availability in ICU settings.
Referral
Renal ultrasound
To exclude obstruction (hydronephrosis). Perform if CI-AKI does not improve by day 3–5 or if clinical suspicion of obstruction.
Specialist
Renal biopsy
Rarely indicated. Consider if atypical features (e.g., prolonged AKI beyond 2 weeks, active urine sediment, suspected interstitial nephritis).

Management

Acute Management of Established CI-AKI

1
Assess & Optimise Haemodynamics
Ensure euvolaemia; avoid hypotension. Target MAP ≥65 mmHg. Use isotonic crystalloid boluses if hypovolaemic (250–500 mL NaCl 0.9% or Plasma-Lyte 148®). Avoid over-resuscitation in oliguric patients — monitor daily weight, fluid balance, and lung auscultation.
2
Remove / Avoid Ongoing Nephrotoxic Insults
Cease NSAIDs, aminoglycosides, and other nephrotoxins. Withhold metformin if eGFR <30 or CI-AKI confirmed. Consider holding ACEi/ARB during acute phase. Avoid further contrast exposure for ≥48–72 hours minimum.
3
Monitor Electrolytes & Fluid Balance
Strict fluid balance chart. Daily UEC, phosphate, calcium. Correct hyperkalaemia per ACLS protocol if K⁺ >6.0 mmol/L (calcium gluconate 10% 10 mL IV, insulin 10 U + glucose 50 g IV, salbutamol nebuliser 10–20 mg). Treat metabolic acidosis (NaHCO₃ if pH <7.1).
4
Adjust Medication Doses
Review all renally cleared medications. Key adjustments: reduce enoxaparin dose if eGFR <30 (1 mg/kg OD → 1 mg/kg OD with anti-Xa monitoring or use UFH). Adjust DOACs (apixaban: halve dose if eGFR <25 + age >80 or weight <60 kg). Aminoglycosides: extend interval or avoid.
5
Nephrology Referral
Refer to nephrology if: sCr rises >50% above baseline and does not peak within 48 hrs, oliguria <0.5 mL/kg/hr for >6 hrs, hyperkalaemia refractory to medical management, pulmonary oedema unresponsive to diuretics, need for renal replacement therapy, or suspected alternative diagnosis (e.g., interstitial nephritis, atheroembolic disease).
6
Renal Replacement Therapy (RRT)
Indications for emergency dialysis: refractory hyperkalaemia (K⁺ >6.5 despite medical Rx), severe metabolic acidosis (pH <7.1), pulmonary oedema unresponsive to diuretics, uraemic encephalopathy or pericarditis. Intermittent haemodialysis (IHD) is standard; consider continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) if haemodynamically unstable. Contact on-call nephrology and ICU for urgent initiation.

Post-Discharge Follow-Up

  • Recheck serum creatinine and eGFR at 1 week and 3 months post-discharge.
  • If eGFR remains <60 mL/min/1.73 m², establish ongoing CKD management with GP and consider nephrology follow-up.
  • Document CI-AKI episode prominently in medical records and My Health Record (if patient-consented) to alert future treating clinicians.
  • Educate patient regarding risk of recurrence with future contrast exposure; provide written alert card.
  • Restart previously withheld medications (metformin, ACEi/ARB, SGLT2i) only after confirming stable renal function (≥48 hrs of stable creatinine).
  • Screen for progression to CKD at 3 months using ACR (albumin-to-creatinine ratio) and eGFR.

Special Populations

🤰 Pregnancy
Iodinated contrast
Crosses the placenta; FDA Category B. Can be used if clinically necessary — transient foetal hypothyroidism is theoretical risk but not clinically significant with modern non-ionic agents. Avoid gadolinium in pregnancy (Category D).
Hydration
Standard isotonic crystalloid regimen applies. Monitor for fluid overload in preeclampsia or cardiac disease.
Breastfeeding
Safe to continue breastfeeding after iodinated contrast — minimal oral absorption by infant. No need to discard breast milk.
👶 Paediatrics
Risk assessment
Children have lower baseline CI-AKI risk due to fewer comorbidities. Risk increases with pre-existing CKD, haemodynamic instability, neonatal age, and cardiac surgery.
Hydration
Isotonic saline 1.5–2 mL/kg/hr IV pre- and post-procedure. Use paediatric fluid rate charts. Avoid dehydration from nil-by-mouth orders — allow clear fluids up to 2 hrs pre-procedure.
Contrast dose
Weight-based dosing: typically 1.5–2 mL/kg of LOCM. Maximum 3–4 mL/kg for CT. Use automated injector protocols adapted for paediatric patients.
NAC
Limited paediatric evidence; 14 mg/kg PO BD for 48 hours if used off-label. Discuss with paediatric nephrology.
👴 Elderly (≥75 years)
Heightened risk
Age >75 is a Mehran score variable (+4 points). Reduced nephron mass, high prevalence of CKD, polypharmacy with nephrotoxins, and impaired thirst mechanism compound risk.
Hydration caution
Use lower hydration rates (1 mL/kg/hr) in patients with heart failure or left ventricular dysfunction. Consider central venous pressure monitoring in very high-risk patients. Monitor for pulmonary oedema.
Medication review
Comprehensive medication reconciliation essential. Withhold metformin, NSAIDs, and consider holding ACEi/ARB. Adjust DOAC doses to renal function.
🫘 Chronic Kidney Disease (eGFR <30)
Highest risk group
CI-AKI risk 20–50% in CKD stage 4–5. Mandatory pre-procedural eGFR within 7 days of contrast exposure. Always consider alternatives to iodinated contrast.
Hydration
1 mL/kg/hr isotonic crystalloid. Avoid over-hydration — increased risk of pulmonary oedema. In-dialysis patients: schedule contrast immediately before haemodialysis session to enable prompt removal.
Contrast volume
Absolute minimum volume. Target contrast/eGFR ratio <1.1. Use dilute contrast or carbon dioxide angiography for peripheral vascular studies.
Dialysis patients
Iodinated contrast does not cause AKI (no residual renal function), but can cause intradialytic haemodynamic instability. Schedule dialysis within 24 hrs of contrast if residual function present.
🫁 Hepatic Impairment
Risk
Hepatorenal syndrome predisposes to AKI; contrast may precipitate acute-on-chronic liver failure-related AKI. Standard CI-AKI prevention applies.
Metformin
Contraindicated in severe hepatic impairment (Child–Pugh C) regardless of contrast. Withhold in decompensated liver disease.
🛡️ Immunocompromised
Calcineurin inhibitors
Ciclosporin and tacrolimus are independent nephrotoxins. Consider temporary dose reduction if feasible in peri-contrast period. Coordinate with transplant team.
Myeloma patients
Light-chain precipitation risk with iodinated contrast. Ensure adequate hydration (≥2 L oral/IV daily for 24 hrs pre- and post-contrast). Avoid dehydration and concurrent nephrotoxins.
🪃 Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander
Higher baseline risk
ATSI Australians have 2–3× higher rates of CKD and ESKD compared to non-Indigenous Australians. Diabetes prevalence is 3–4× higher. These factors substantially elevate CI-AKI risk.
Remote access
Point-of-care creatinine/eGFR testing essential in remote communities where pathology turnaround may be 5–7 days. Use iSTAT or similar device for pre-procedural screening.
Cultural safety
Use Aboriginal Health Workers/Practitioners for explanation. Provide culturally appropriate written and verbal education about contrast risks, hydration importance, and medication changes. Use interpreter services for patients whose primary language is not English.

ATSI Health Considerations

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples experience a disproportionate burden of chronic kidney disease, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease — all major risk factors for contrast-induced acute kidney injury. The AIHW reports that ATSI Australians are 2.5 times more likely to have CKD and 3.8 times more likely to develop ESKD than non-Indigenous Australians. These disparities demand specific attention in CI-AKI risk assessment and prevention.

CKD prevalence
2–3× higher in ATSI populations. Remote and very remote communities have the highest rates, driven by diabetes, hypertension, and streptococcal-related glomerulonephritis. Mandatory eGFR screening before contrast in all ATSI patients regardless of age.
Diabetes comorbidity
Diabetes prevalence in ATSI adults is 3–4× the non-Indigenous rate. Diabetic nephropathy is the leading cause of ESKD in ATSI Australians. Combined CKD + diabetes confers the highest CI-AKI risk (up to 50%).
Remote & rural access
Patients in remote NT, WA, QLD, and SA communities may travel >500 km for imaging. Point-of-care creatinine testing (iSTAT, Abbott) is essential to enable same-day risk stratification when standard pathology is unavailable.
Cultural safety
Engage Aboriginal Health Workers/Practitioners in pre-procedure counselling. Use local language interpreters (e.g., for Yolŋu Matha, Pitjantjatjara, Kriol). Respect kinship protocols — family members may need to be present during consent discussions. Provide pictorial and plain-language education materials.
Hydration counselling
In hot climates (northern Australia), dehydration risk is elevated. Counsel patients to increase oral fluid intake for 24 hours pre-procedure. Where IV hydration is needed, coordinate with remote clinic nursing staff for pre- and post-hydration protocols at local health centres.
Follow-up & continuity
Arrange post-contrast creatinine checks at 48 hours and 7 days through local Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs). Use telehealth nephrology consultations for remote patients who develop CI-AKI. Ensure My Health Record consent and documentation for continuity across providers.
RHDAustralia guidance
For ATSI patients with rheumatic heart disease requiring cardiac catheterisation, coordinate with RHDAustralia protocols. These patients often have concurrent CKD from glomerulonephritis and require enhanced CI-AKI prevention.

📚 References

  1. 1. KDIGO Clinical Practice Guideline for Acute Kidney Injury. Kidney International Supplements. 2024;14(1):S1–S144. doi:10.1016/j.kisu.2024.01.001.
  2. 2. Weisbord SD, Gallagher M, Jneid H, et al. Outcomes after angiography with sodium bicarbonate and acetylcysteine (PRESERVE). N Engl J Med. 2018;378(7):603–614. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa1710933.
  3. 3. Nijssen EC, Rennenberg RJ, Nelemans PJ, et al. Prophylactic hydration to protect renal function from intravascular iodinated contrast material in patients at high risk of contrast-induced nephropathy (AMACING). Lancet. 2017;389(10076):1312–1322. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(17)30057-0.
  4. 4. Mehran R, Aymong ED, Nikolsky E, et al. A simple risk score for prediction of contrast-induced nephropathy after percutaneous coronary intervention. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2004;44(7):1393–1399. doi:10.1016/j.jacc.2004.06.068.
  5. 5. Aspelin P, Aubry P, Fransson SG, et al. Nephrotoxicity in high-risk patients study of iso-osmolar and low-osmolar nonionic contrast media (NEPHRIC). N Engl J Med. 2003;348(6):491–499. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa021833.
  6. 6. Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW). Chronic kidney disease: Australian facts. Cat. no. PHE 228. Canberra: AIHW; 2023.
  7. 7. Australia and New Zealand Dialysis and Transplant Registry (ANZDATA). 46th Annual Report 2023. Adelaide: SA Health and Medical Research Institute; 2023.
  8. 8. Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care (ACSQHC). National Safety and Quality Health Service Standards. 2nd ed. Sydney: ACSQHC; 2021.
  9. 9. Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP). Guidelines for preventive activities in general practice (Red Book). 10th ed. East Melbourne: RACGP; 2024.
  10. 10. Kidney Health Australia. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) management in primary care. 4th ed. Melbourne: Kidney Health Australia; 2020.
  11. 11. Subramaniam RM, Wilson RF, Engelmann T, et al. ACR Manual on Contrast Media. Version 2024. Reston, VA: American College of Radiology; 2024.
  12. 12. van der Molen AJ, Reimer P, Dekkers IA, et al. Post-contrast acute kidney injury — Part 1: Definition, clinical features, incidence, role of contrast medium and risks. Eur Radiol. 2018;28(7):2845–2855. doi:10.1007/s00330-017-5246-5.