Consensus report on quality control of quantitative measurements of renal function obtained from the renogram: International Consensus Committee fromthe Scientific Committee of Radionuclides in Nephrourology

Among all the physiological indices that can be quantified using renography , measurement of renal function is the most basic. These measurements are u sed to make critical clinical management decisions and, as such, their reli ability needs to be quality assured. This article seeks to address each asp ect of the renography procedure, with particular emphasis on the effect on measurement of relative renal function. Estimation of individual kidney fun ction is mentioned, but only briefly. A consensus approach was adopted, ove rseen, and directed by a chairman appointed by the Scientific Committee of the International Radionuclides in Nephro-Urology Group. The chairman selec ted the panel of experts from eight different countries based on their prac tical experience in the field. Where evidence exists to support the various recommendations it is given. Otherwise, the stated guidance represents the considered opinion of a body of experts, based on long experience and unpu blished data. Same necessary compromises were made to account for the fact that renography is seldom performed solely with the purpose of measuring re lative renal function. The technicalities of renography have always been a source of debate in nuclear medicine, which is reflected by the fact that a consensus could simply not be reached on a small number of issues. The str ucture of the report ensures that these are clearly indicated. This should serve to highlight gaps in our current knowledge, thus helping to direct fu ture research. it is envisaged that the recommendations will be revised on a P-year cycle to ensure that they remain up to date. An "open" process wil l be used to encourage participation and ownership. It is hoped that promot ion of these guidelines, suitably complemented by audit processes, will rai se standards in the practice of gamma camera renography. Copyright (C) 1999 by W.B. Saunders Company.