Researchers from the Guerbet Group and the University of Münster in Germany recently found rat test subjects retained linear gadolinium a year after injected. This research supports thousands of individuals afflicted with a variety of illnesses after receiving an MRI or MRA scan.
About Gadolinium
Gadolinium is a chemical element carrying the atomic number 64 and the atomic symbol Gd. Belonging to a group of elements in the periodic table called Lanthanides, the chemical is a rare earth element typically used in microwave applications, color TV tubes, synthetic gemstones, compact discs, and computer memory. This chemical element is widely used as an injectable contrast agent when patients undergo magnetic resonance Imaging (MRI) and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) scans.
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 supposedly expels the chemical after receiving the injection. However, for thousands, their kidneys do not.
Gadolinium Retention Study
The German study used rats to mimic the human brain. Researchers wanted to see what affect gadolinium had on the brain’s cerebellum after repeated injections. The researchers used both linear and macrocyclic agents. Dr. Robert and his researchers found that 75% of the rats still retained the contrast agent a year later. In fact, the body only processed small traces of the chemical agent.
The team analyzed 140 nine-week-old rats. Researchers injected all with five doses of 2.4 mmol gadolinium per kilogram of body weight over five weeks. Using MRI scans, the team monitored the rats for one year. This is how they knew that 75% of the rats still had gadolinium in their brains.
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 consultation. We have over 20 years experience helping consumers injured by unsafe products manufactured by large companies.