Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors and contrast-induced nephropathy.

The available data on the use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, and the associated risks for contrast-induced nephropathy are sparse and conflicting. Nevertheless, it is a common practice to hold angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors before contrast media administration. The reduction of renal blood flow that occurs following the administration of contrast media may be due to the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system causing constriction of the afferent arterioles. The influence of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor administration on the development of contrast-induced nephropathy was discussed in this letter.