Gadolinium

The use of gadolinium-based contrast agents prior to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is associated with an increased risk of a debilitating—and potentially fatal—disease known as NSF, or nephrogenic systemic fibrosis. In May 2007, the Food and Drug Administration asked the makers of gadolinium-based MRI dyes to include a black box on the label to warn of the risk of NSF in patients with severe kidney problems. The warning also applies to liver transplant/liver disease patients who experience kidney problems.

What Is NSF?

NSF is an extremely rare and devastating disease marked by the thickening and hardening of the skin, muscles, and sometimes the internal organs. The disease was only first discovered in 1997 and there is currently no “consistently effective” treatment, according to the FDA.

Since its initial discovery, NSF has been diagnosed in numerous patients who had received a gadolinium-based contrast agent. NSF appeared in these patients anywhere from days to months after receiving an MRI dye. Some of these cases of NSF resulted in death.

Signs and symptoms of NSF that individuals who’ve undergone an MRI with a gadolinium-based contrast agent should look out for include:

• Skin swelling, tightening, or hardening
• Burning, itching, darkened, or red spots on the skin
• Joint stiffness, limited mobility, muscle weakness, and/or bone pain

FDA Approved Gadolinium Agents

The FDA has approved five gadolinium-based contrast agents for use prior to MRI: ProHance, MultiHance, OptiMARK, Optiscan, and Magnevist. These agents are used to enhance the quality of the MRI image by creating contrast to make the body’s internal structures clearer. However, gadolinium-based dyes are also sometimes used for MRA (magnetic resonance angiography)—and at much higher doses—even though this is not an approved use.

Protect Your Legal Rights

Patients undergo MRI testing as a step toward improving their health, not diminishing it. Learning you have a deadly disease that could have been prevented is devastating and you can do something about it. If you or a loved one developed NSF after receiving a gadolinium-based agent, you may be able to take legal action against the product’s maker. Let us help you protect your legal rights. Contact us today for a complimentary consultation.