Neutrophil Gelatinase-associated Lipocalin (NGAL) and Contrast Media Induced Nephropathy

Introduction: Patients with pre-existing impaired renal function are prone to develop acute contrast media induced nephropathy (CIN). Neutrophil gelatinase-associated Lipocalin (NGAL), a new biomarker predictive for acute renal injury has been shown to be capable for earlier diagnosis of acute contrast media induced nephropathy (CIN) in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Intravenous volume load is a widely accepted prophylaxis. In this randomized and controlled study, only patients with the need for an intra-arterial contrast media (CM) application will be included and receive a standardized, weight-based, intravenous hydration before investigation. It is the aim of this study: 1. to evaluate the magnitude of a risk for contrast media induced nephropathy (CIN) following intra-arterial angiography in a well defined group of high-risk patients. 2. to use urinary Neutrophil gelatinase-associated Lipocalin (NGAL) as an early predictor of contrast media induced nephropathy (CIN) after contrast media (CM) application. 3. to evaluate the clinical benefit of an early post-procedural i.v. hydration as compared to only pre-procedural volume expansion. Patients with markedly increased urinary Neutrophil gelatinase-associated Lipocalin (NGAL) after investigation will be randomized into one of two study groups: Patients of Group A will undergo standard treatment consisting of unrestricted oral fluid intake. Patients of Group B will additionally receive 3-4 ml/kg BW/h 0.9 % saline intravenously for 6 hours. Endpoints: Primary endpoint: contrast media induced nephropathy (CIN) defined by an increase greater than 25% of baseline serum creatinine. Secondary endpoint: NGAL, Cystatin C, and creatinine values, need for renal replacement therapy, death.