A D Piersson1, P N Gorleku2. 1. Department of Imaging Technology & Sonography, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Central Region, Ghana; Corston Health System Ltd, P.O. Box GP 4560, Accra, Ghana. Electronic address: albert.piersson@ucc.edu.gh. 2. Department of Imaging Technology & Sonography, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Central Region, Ghana. Electronic address: philip.gorleku@ucc.edu.gh.
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study is to identify current practice of administration of gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs) in Ghana. METHOD: A total of 13 MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) facilities were sent a survey questionnaire to request information on their current practice with the use of GBCAs. RESULTS: Gadodiamide, a high risk GBCA accounted for 67% of first line agents. 5 (42%) had a departmental protocol on the administration of GBCAs with regards to its association with nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF). Of the 8 that use gadodiamide, 3 check kidney function in all patients, 2 check in selected patients, and 3 do not check at all. All 3 that screen all patients do not use contrast if the patient has an eGFR (estimated glomerular filtration rate) of 30-59 ml/min, 1 considers other modality; and if the patient has an eGFR of <30 ml/min, 2 do not use contrast but consider other modality, however 1 continues with the high risk agent. CONCLUSION: Gadodiamide is widely used, with varied practice in screening for renal function, and risk factors associated with NSF. Current evidence shows that it is advisable to administer macrocyclic agents in patients with compromised renal function. It is also imperative to establish local guidelines in line with international guidelines in order to minimize the incidence of NSF.
INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study is to identify current practice of administration of gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs) in Ghana. METHOD: A total of 13 MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) facilities were sent a survey questionnaire to request information on their current practice with the use of GBCAs. RESULTS:Gadodiamide, a high risk GBCA accounted for 67% of first line agents. 5 (42%) had a departmental protocol on the administration of GBCAs with regards to its association with nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF). Of the 8 that use gadodiamide, 3 check kidney function in all patients, 2 check in selected patients, and 3 do not check at all. All 3 that screen all patients do not use contrast if the patient has an eGFR (estimated glomerular filtration rate) of 30-59 ml/min, 1 considers other modality; and if the patient has an eGFR of <30 ml/min, 2 do not use contrast but consider other modality, however 1 continues with the high risk agent. CONCLUSION:Gadodiamide is widely used, with varied practice in screening for renal function, and risk factors associated with NSF. Current evidence shows that it is advisable to administer macrocyclic agents in patients with compromised renal function. It is also imperative to establish local guidelines in line with international guidelines in order to minimize the incidence of NSF.