Statins and Contrast-Induced Nephropathy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is a type of acute kidney injury associated with intravascular administration of iodinated contrast, usually reversible. Contrast agents are an essential component of invasive and noninvasive coronary angiography. These agents have been modified over time to enhance patient safety and tolerability, but adverse reactions still occur. CIN has been variably defined, as a rise in serum creatinine of 0.5 mg/dl, or a 25% increase in serum creatinine above baseline within 24-72 hours after the procedure. The incidence of CIN varies based on the definition used and risk profile of the patients. CIN is rare among patients with normal renal function at baseline. In low-risk patients, CIN occurs in 1-5%, whereas in higher-risk populations, the incidence can be as high as 30%. CIN is also associated with a 5- to 20-fold increased risk of other early adverse events including in-hospital myocardial infarction, target vessel occlusion, and early mortality. The main prevention strategies are adequate intravenous hydration before, during and after the procedure as well as restriction of contrast load with maximum volume approximately no more than three times the serum creatinine clearance. Recent observational and small prospective randomized trials demonstrate the reduction of CIN incidence with HMG-CoA enzyme inhibitors. In this systematic review and meta-analysis we explore the effects of statin administration in prevention of CIN.