Contrast media induced nephropathy.

Abstract

Contrast media Induced nephropathy (CIN) is one the leading causes of iatrogenic disease in hospitals. As the number of contrast media examinations increase, this topic is gaining interest among researchers in order to identify causes of this event and ways and means to prevent it. The researcher was prompted to evaluate the current situation at the Cardiac Catheterization (CC) Lab at St. Luke's Hospital Malta. The study also served as a pilot study for further research regarding this matter. The objective of the study was to provide an incidence of CIN in patients undergoing a CC procedure as well as identify certain patient risk factors. The study revealed the tendency for a high incidence of CIN within the population and certain patient risk factors were inclined to contribute to an increased incidence of CIN. Despite these tendencies, there were no significant conclusions drawn up. A positive outcome was attained from the pilot study and is a good basis for further research. Several recommendations were put forward.