Gadolinium Risks
Although the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has deemed gadolinium safe for use, negative reactions have proved dangerous for some patients. The development of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF), a fatal disease, has been linked to gadolinium use. For this reason, the FDA began issuing warnings in 2006 to those in the health care field, calling for discretion when it comes to gadolinium use in MRI tests.
Identification
Gadolinium is a non-radioactive, watery substance that is injected into the vein. The gadolinium is attracted to abnormal tissue and acts as a contrast agent during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Effects
Because of its attraction to abnormal tissue, gadolinium has proven successful in locating tumors in the body. The gadolinium also makes it possible to determine tumor size.
Misconceptions
Despite the risks of using gadolinium during MRI scans, this type of scan is preferred over the CAT scan which uses iodine. Iodine sensitivity can cause allergic reactions that can range from mild to dangerously severe.
Warnings
Patients with severe kidney disorders do not eliminate the gadolinium contrast as efficiently as patients without kidney problems. Gadolinium stays in the body of kidney disorder patients for longer periods of time, increasing the likelihood of developing NSF, a disease responsible for thickened skin, destruction of connective tissue and organs, as well as broken bones that result from the diseased connective tissue.
Considerations
Less severe side effects can occur with the use of gadolinium. Nausea, vomiting, low blood pressure and mild headaches have been reported.
Expert Insight
Pregnant women and women who are nursing should not be exposed to gadolinium, due to risks to the fetus or newborn baby. Therefore, MRIs are only used for patients that are in dire straights, or when the benefit outweighs the risks.
Potential
Research has identified that dosage amounts of gadolinium may play a role in patient risk. The larger the dose, the bigger the risk.
Tags: abnormal tissue, connective tissue, Gadolinium Risks
