Two known brain surgeons faced with a mountain of questions from patients about gadolinium safety wrote an article for AAP news about convincing these concerned individuals that gadolinium is safe. Medical professionals use gadolinium-based contrast agents in about half of all MRI studies in to increase the visualization of normal structures. Also, the agent helps in the diagnosis of pathologies, such as tumors and infection.
Gadolinium in MRIs or MRAs
Before undergoing an MRI or MRA, a gadolinium contrast agent is injected into the bloodstream and is stored in the blood vessels and abnormal tissue. This is so doctors can easily detect and trace any problems found within the body. Previously, researchers said this chemical element was safe for use in MRIs and MRAs. In fact, the element is very toxic.
The kidney expels the chemical after receiving the injection. However, regardless of kidney health patients can develop complications from the element spreading in the body. But, not all contrast agents are alike. Some are riskier than others.
Lying About Gadolinium Safety
When faced with patient safety concerns over gadolinium, doctors should be an ally for his or her patient. More studies are being released outlining the dangers of gadolinium. Therefore, many patients are questioning gadolinium safety. Instead of easing those fears, doctors are penning articles instructing other medical professionals on how to convince them to use the contrast.
“There are no known side effects of this gadolinium deposition exist.”
Yet, many trends point to decreasing the administration of the agent, especially for first-time headache and seizure patients. Now, researchers are studying omitting gadolinium in scans for those with neurofibromatosis and inflammatory bowel disease. Plus, a 2017 study found that 94% of all pediatric MRI studies are always protocoled by a pediatric radiologist and that GBCAs are administered judiciously, in agreement with evidence- and expert-based recommendations.
Fears of gadolinium safety aren’t new. Before gadolinium retention became known, people were suffering from NSF, nephrogenic systemic fibrosis. NSF is a scleroderma-like disease affecting the skin and internal organs and causing progressive fibrosis and lethal outcomes. Most people with NSF had pre-existing chronic kidney disease. However, gadolinium retention happens in those with normal kidney function.
Free Case Evaluation
A gadolinium lawsuit may be an option for patients suffering from gadolinium retention and related complications. Gadolinium, used in dyes to increase the clarity of MRI and MRA scans, can create chemical element retention in the body, Therefore, this increases the risk of gadolinium deposition disease and nephrogenic systemic fibrosis. These conditions are accompanied by symptoms that include severe physical pain and cognitive difficulties. Affected patients and their loved ones may be able to file a lawsuit and recover damages.
For more information, contact The Michael Brady Lynch Firm. We offer free, confidential, no obligation consultations. We have over 20 years of experience helping consumers injured by unsafe products manufactured by large companies.