Renal function after high-dose urography in patients with chronic renal insufficiency

Renal function was assessed by frequent recordings of Ccr and serum creatinine in 22 patients with chronic renal failure before and after high-dose urography. Urography was followed by a significant, moderate and transient decrease in Ccr which was maximal on the second day; at the same time a significant increase in serum creatinine was observed which was maximal on the fourth day after urography. In all but two patients, Ccr and serum creatinine returned to pre-urographic levels within the next two weeks. Possible causes of the deleterious effects of the contrast media on the kidneys are discussed.