10 Side Effects of CT Scans
Side Effect #7: Contrast-Induced Nephropathy
Contrast-induced nephropathy refers to damage to the kidneys due to a history of exposure to contrast used in medical imaging without any evidence of other causes for kidney injury. It can be defined as having a serum creatinine that increases by at least 25 percent or if the increase is 0.5 mg/dl or more after use of iodine contrast without other clear cause of acute kidney injury.
While the mechanism is unclear, it is believed to be due to direct damage from reactive oxygen species, changes in narrowing and dilation of renal blood vessels, contrast-induced increase in urinary output, and changes in urine viscosity. This is a side effect of a CT scan with contrast. Risk increases in those with pre-existing diabetes, reduced intravascular volume, or renal insufficiency.
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