Contrast-induced nephropathy: are there differences between low osmolar and iso-osmolar iodinated contrast media?
Received 7 July 2008; accepted 7 August 2008.
It is acknowledged that high osmolar contrast media are more nephrotoxic than low (LOCM) or iso-osmolar contrast media (IOCM). However, it remains contentious whether the IOCM are less nephrotoxic in comparison with LOCM. This article reviews published clinical studies that investigated this issue and demonstrates there are no conclusive data to indicate that there is a definite difference in renal tolerance between LOCM and IOCM. All these agents are potentially nephrotoxic in patients with advanced renal impairment. In these patients the smallest possible dose of IOCM or LOCM should be used in addition to adequate hydration to minimize the risk of contrast nephropathy.
Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Northern General Hospital, Sheffield S5 7AU, UK
Guarantor and correspondent: S. K. Morcos, Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Northern General Hospital, Herries Road, Sheffield S5 7AU, UK. Tel.: +44 114 2714339; fax: +44 114 2611791.
1 Within the last 12 months the author has received consultancy and lectures fees from the following companies that manufacture contrast media: Bracco, Italy, Bayer Schering, Germany, and Guerbet, France. The authors also received a research grant from Guerbet.
ABSTRACT