Statins in the prevention of contrast-induced nephropathy

Coronary angiography and percutaneous coronary interventions are common procedures that utilize iodinated contrast medium to visualize the coronary arterial tree and treat stable and unstable ischemic heart syndromes. Exposure to contrast agents can cause acute and persistent worsening of renal function leading to increased morbidity and mortality. Certain patient characteristics such as age, presence of diabetes, congestive heart failure, chronic kidney disease, hemodynamic instability on presentation, and type and volume of contrast used can increase the risk of developing contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) and its subsequent complications. Despite the lack of a universal definition, CIN is typically defined as an increase in serum creatinine ≥0.5 mg/dL or 25 % above baseline 48 to 72 h after contrast exposure. Previous research has shown the benefits of adequate intravenous hydration with iso-osmolar crystalloids and the importance of limiting the amount of low-osmolar and iso-osmolar contrast used to prevent the development of CIN. 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitors (statins) have anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic properties with few side effects, making it an attractive therapeutic option for prevention of CIN. A number of trials have examined the benefit of different types of statins, high-dose versus low-dose statins, loading versus chronic dosing of statins, in various clinical presentations including acute coronary syndromes and elective procedures, and in those with associated comorbidities such as anemia and chronic kidney disease. In this review, we will summarize recent data regarding statin therapy for prevention of contrast-induced nephropathy.