ct scan

[Radars]

my gp has made me a appointment for a ct thorax abdomen pelvis with contrast ,and with the wasting I am having even though my appetite is ok,I think it's with me leaking protein with proteinuria, anyone else have this and how long does the scan last.

[Snoopy53]

What I've learned from this site is that contrast dyes should be avoided if you have CKD

[PeaB4YouGo]

Usually, a CT scan is 10 mins, in and out. Nothing to it, really. My wife hates them because she's VERY claustrophobic.

Yeah, there's a whole thing about dyes. CT contrast is NOT good for you due to the iodine in it. If there would be a need for MRI, the dye that they use for that is tolerable to most kidney patients.

[Arthur15]

Hi Radars. My doctor strongly recommends against contrast dyes. It is very hard on the kidneys

[Darlenia]

Sometimes CT scans with contrast are necessary - even for those with kidney issues and kidney transplants. My husband has had many during his journey with diabetic kidney disease, dialysis, and transplant - for a heart stent, for brain surgery, for ureter stents, etc. He maintained steady numbers throughout all of them - he made a point to stay hydrated, he requested reduced contrast if that was possible, etc. Regarding the latter, ask the anesthesiologist/doctors on duty that day if reducing contrast or kidney friendly contrast is possible. (The request often gets lost if done too soon because medical assignments are often made at the last minute.) The important thing to remember is that, while kidneys are important, other organs are also exceptionally valuable - consider the brain, the heart, the digestive system, etc. Not a whole lot one can do if they fail.

[MartyVA]

Hi Radar, I am post transplant three years. I have had at least three CT scan with contrast. I always contact my imaging center and ask which contrast they are using. My transplant center, PCP and local nephrologist have all okayed me for Clariscan, which certain cautions. I have follow instructions to the letter and have not had any issues using Clariscan. There are cautions online regarding the health of individuals, their kidneys health, age, etc. Always check with your specialist before accepting any contrast/dyes. There are some situations which do require the use of a contrast. We are all different make sure that whatever they are using is safe for you.

[FelineFandom146]

No contrast dyes for those with CKD! Ever and don't let them talk you into it or do it forceably! I had a radiologist force a needle on me years back. I survived okay. I had another radiologist give me a dye, I can't recall the name, but a bad one that I didn't know about. I questioned about it extensively because I knew I shouldn't have it. Long story short, I got the dye via pill and didn't know it was a dye despite my questions. Fortunately, nothing bad happened that time. If in doubt, get up and out is my motto now. If you can't trust the physician, that is a BIG RED FLAG! stay safe. Check with Nephrologist when in doubt and hope they know.

[JHutton1994]

Lasts a few minutes maximum. Painless. Contrast may cause a warm feeling in your groin but it passes quickly.

[FelineFandom146]

P.S. all dyes are bad for the kidneys, but there is one that is SUPER BAD! It is called Gadolinium. One of the few useful things my Nephrologist told me about. Avoid at ALL costs. Radilogists like to use it because if makes the images easier to read, but Nephrologists don't and you can ready why.

Here's the link: mayoclinic.org/diseases-con...

Summary:

Gadolinium related NSF

Gadolinium-Associated Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis (NSF) is a rare and potentially life-threatening condition caused by exposure to gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs) used in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in patients with impaired kidney function.

Clinical Recommendation: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) currently recommends against using GBCAs in patients with a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) less than 30 mL per minute per 1.73 m2, or any acute renal insufficiency related to the hepatorenal syndrome or perioperative liver transplantation.

Symptoms: The symptoms of NSF may develop slowly over a few weeks to a few months after exposure to GBCAs. The severity and progression of the disorder can vary from one person to another. The disorder can have a rapid, progressive course and can cause debilitating symptoms, including:

• Thickening and hardening of the skin and subcutaneous tissues

• Skin induration and stiffness

• Joint contractures

• Muscle weakness

• Pain

• Pruritus

• Edema

Causes: NSF is caused by the exposure to GBCAs in patients with impaired kidney function. The exact mechanism of NSF is not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to the deposition of gadolinium in the skin and other tissues, leading to inflammation and fibrosis.

Risk Factors: The risk of NSF is higher in patients with:

• Impaired kidney function (GFR < 30 mL per minute per 1.73 m2)

• Acute renal insufficiency related to the hepatorenal syndrome or perioperative liver transplantation

• Recent surgery, endovascular injury, or sepsis

• History of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis

Treatment: There is no specific treatment for NSF, and management is largely supportive. Treatment options may include:

• Pain management

• Physical therapy to maintain joint mobility

• Skin care to prevent further skin thickening

• Consideration of alternative imaging modalities, such as ultrasound or computed tomography (CT) scans, for patients at high risk of NSF

Prevention: Prevention of NSF is key, and this can be achieved by:

• Using alternative imaging modalities, such as ultrasound or CT scans, for patients at high risk of NSF

• Avoiding GBCAs in patients with impaired kidney function

• Monitoring patients with impaired kidney function closely for signs of NSF

• Educating patients and healthcare providers about the risks of NSF associated with GBCAs

Conclusion: Gadolinium-Associated Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis is a rare and potentially life-threatening condition caused by exposure to GBCAs in patients with impaired kidney function. Prevention and early recognition are crucial in managing this condition. Healthcare providers should be aware of the risks and take steps to minimize exposure to GBCAs in patients at high risk of NSF.