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Gadolinium Contrast Agents - A Deadly View

By Oguz Ozdemir

Gadolinium contrast agents are used in MRIs (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) to help medical technicians view tumors, growths, cancers or other tissue and organ disorders that they would not ordinarily be able to view on a traditional x-ray. This clear liquid that is made with the rare earth metal Gadolinium is injected into the body intravenously and collects in abnormal tissue. The magnetic field produced by the MRI affects the paramagnetic metal material in the liquid causing it to form a pretty clear image in the affected area. Gadolinium is toxic to humans in its organic form, but in a chelated form, can be tolerated and flushed out of the body by the kidneys after the procedure is over.

However, manufacturers of Gadolinium contrast agents failed to inform doctors and MRI technicians that it was not safe for patients with severe kidney failure. In these patients, the kidneys are not able to handle the level of toxicity that the contrast material possesses. Severe reactions to Gadolinium contrast agent have occurred including development of a serious condition known as Gadolinium Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis (NSF). This disease is characterized by a thickening, hardening or scarring of skin tissues, the eyes, major internal organs and joints. Not only is it painful and ulcerative, it can also produce death if the disease progresses to the point of seriously affecting the kidneys and liver. There is no cure for NSF and treatment options are limited.

The first recorded reaction to Gadolinium contrast material happened in 1997, but it wasn't until May of 2007 that the FDA issued strict requirements for black box warnings to manufacturers. The four main brands of Gadolinium contrast agents are Magnevist, Omniscan, OptiMARK and Multihance. Bayer Healthcare distributes Magnevist and they began this year settling some of the lawsuits originating from injuries associated with the use of Gadolinium contrast material. GE Healthcare manufactures Omniscan, Bracco Diagnostics distributes Multihance and Mallinckrodt Inc. produces OptiMARK.

If you or someone you care about received a Gadolinium contrast agent injection prior to receiving an MRI and has been suffering from NSF symptoms, take a moment and fill out the "Quick Contact" form on the home page of this website. You will be contacted by a professional and empathetic attorney who will evaluate your case. You may be eligible for compensation.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by Oguz Ozdemir

Full post as published by New York City Personal Injury Lawyer on September 11, 2009 (boomark / email).