Gadolinium Contrast Agents
Exposure to selected contrast agents used during (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) MRI’s are now being linked to a disorder known as Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis or Nephrogenic Fibrosing Dermopathy (NSF/NFD). Gadolinium-containing contrast agents are commonly injected into the patient’s vein during an MRI test so blood vessels can be distinguished from other nearby tissues. NSF/NFD can be a life-threatening disorder characterized by skin-thickening, extreme muscle rigidity and decreased mobility of joints.
There are five FDA-approved Gadolinium-containing contrast agents, all of which are currently under investigation for any relationship to NSF/NFD:
- Magnevist
- MultiHance
- Omniscan
- OptiMARK
- ProHance
Patients with NSF/NFD develop “skin thickening” which immediately begins to effect flexion and extension of the muscles and joints. In advanced cases, patients develop widespread fibrosis of their internal organs. NSF/NFD was first identified just 10 years ago. It is a progressive disease and can lead to death. Currently, there is no cure or treatment for NSF/NFD.
The risk for developing NSF/NFD as a result of being exposed to Gadolinium appears to be greater for those patients that suffer from moderate to end-stage renal disease. The disorder has been linked to various symptoms including:
Skin and Eyes
- swelling, hardening and tightening of the skin around the eye-sockets
- reddened or darkened patches of skin
- burning or itching
- yellow, raised spots on the whites of the eye.
Bones and Muscles
- Stiffness in the joints
- Problems extending arms, legs, hands and feet
- Pain deep in hip bones and ribs
- Muscle weakness
- Muscle fatigue
To date, there have been over 215 cases of NSF/NFD reported worldwide, about 90 of which are being investigated by the FDA as being related to the administration of Gadolinium containing contrast agents.
More about Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA)
An MRI is a scan done on a part of the body in order to find problems that you can’t see from the outside. During an MRI test, the area of the body being analyzed is placed in a special machine containing a very strong magnet while images are taken of the area in question. MRI’s are used to detect tumors, internal bleeding, blood vessel problems and infections.
An MRA is a special kind of MRI used exclusively to study blood vessels. MRA’s are used to detect the presence of heart disorders, potential strokes and other vascular diseases.
If you or a loved one have experienced any severe side effects as a result of an MRI or MRA, please contact us immediately at (800) 411-0520 or fill out the form for immediate attention to your case.
