What is the Mehran risk score used for?

• A. Probability of restenosis after stenting.
• B. Estimating risk of contrast-induced nephropathy after PCI.
• C. Risk of tamponade during catheterization.
• D. Risk of stroke during PCI.

Answer: (B)

The Mehran risk score is used to estimate the likelihood of contrast-induced nephropathy after a PCI. It combines factors you know around the time of the procedure—baseline kidney function (creatinine/creatinine clearance), age, presence of congestive heart failure, hypotension, anemia, diabetes, and the amount of contrast planned to be used. Adding these together gives a CIN risk level that helps clinicians decide how aggressively to prevent kidney injury, such as ensuring adequate hydration, minimizing contrast volume, and choosing contrast type carefully. Contrast-induced nephropathy is defined as a rise in serum creatinine by 0.5 mg/dL or 25% within 48 to 72 hours after contrast exposure. The other options describe different PCI complications (restenting risk, tamponade, or stroke) and are not what the Mehran score predicts.