Contrast dye? 5 things kidney patients should say before the scan

CT scans and cardiac catheterisation may use contrast — if your kidneys are weak, speak up before the test.

1. Iodinated contrast (CT, cardiac cath, angiography) can cause acute kidney injury; the lower the eGFR the higher the risk, and eGFR <30 is the main risk factor.
2. Tell them first: "I have chronic kidney disease, my eGFR is __", and bring your latest blood results; the doctor will weigh whether the test is necessary or another test can be used.
3. Prevention (KDIGO): IV fluids before and after, the lowest necessary dose, and no NSAIDs or other kidney-toxic drugs around the time of the scan.
4. On metformin? Whether to pause and when to restart depends on kidney function and the type of exam — ask beforehand; don't stop or continue on your own.
5. Gadolinium for MRI: at eGFR <30 some older (group I) agents carry a risk of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis; the group II agents now commonly used carry very low risk. If urine output falls or you swell or get breathless in the days after, go back.

One sentence that protects your kidneys: "I have kidney disease — does this test need contrast?"

출처(카드의 각 항목과 대응): KDIGO 2012 Clinical Practice Guideline for Acute Kidney Injury — Kidney Int Suppl 2012;2:1–138 (Section 4.4 contrast-induced AKI); ACR Manual on Contrast Media (2024) — American College of Radiology
확인일: 2026-10-16

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