Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 10, 2026

Anatomical Reconstructions of the Human Cardiac Venous System using Contrast-computed Tomography of Perfusion-fixed Specimens
Published on: April 18, 2013
Contrast-induced nephropathy after a second contrast exposure.
Hariprasad Trivedi1, W Dennis Foley
1Division of Nephrology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA. htrivedi@mcw.edu
Repeated contrast exposure poses a significant risk of contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN), even in patients with normal kidney function. This study highlights the importance of careful consideration before administering multiple contrast doses.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- The risk of contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) following repeated contrast media administration is not well-established.
- Previous research has primarily focused on single contrast exposures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prospectively evaluate the renal effects of two contrast exposures in adult subjects.
- To assess the incidence of CIN after a second contrast administration in a research setting.
Main Methods:
- Adults with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) >60 mL/min/1.73 m(2) and serum creatinine (sCr) <125% of baseline underwent a second contrast-enhanced scan.
- Subjects received a second contrast exposure after a mean interval of 20 days, with renal function monitored.
Main Results:
- A significant increase in mean sCr (p=0.027) and decline in eGFR (p=0.028) were observed after the second contrast exposure.
- Four subjects (14.3%) developed CIN, indicating a notable risk.
- The study population comprised 28 subjects (75% male, 89% Caucasian, 21% diabetic) with a mean age of 60.6 years.
Conclusions:
- Repeated contrast exposure carries a significant risk of CIN, even in individuals with preserved renal function.
- These findings underscore the need for cautious use of contrast media in clinical practice.
Related Concept Videos
Acute Kidney Injury IV: Diagnostic Studies and Prevention
Imaging Studies VII: Vascular Imaging
Imaging Studies III: Computed Tomography
Cardiac Catheterization I: Pre-Procedure Overview
Radiological Investigation I: X-ray and CT
Acute Kidney Injury III: Clinical Manifestations
