Diuretic Renal Scintigraphy in Patients with Sulfonamide Allergies: Possible Alternative Use of Ethacrynic Acid.

UNLABELLED: Furosemide may trigger life-threatening sulfonamide cross-hypersensitivity reactions, posing a dilemma in patients who need diuretic renal scintigraphy. METHODS: We present our experience using ethacrynic acid as a nonsulfonamide alternative diuretic in 5 patients, with a discussion of the diuretic molecular structure, potential side effects, protocol development, and imaging results. RESULTS: Diuretic renal scintigraphy using ethacrynic acid provided useful information about the obstruction status in all patients, with no adverse clinical impact. CONCLUSION: Ethacrynic acid is a potential alternative to furosemide for patients with severe sulfonamide reactions.