Gadolinium Side Effects

Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis is a fatal disease that is now commonly linked to gadolinium contrast agents injected into the body, which are used to enhance the clarity of MRI scans.  It is the syndrome where excessive fibrous tissue begins to grow on the eyes, skin, joints and internal organs.  People with chronic severe kidney insufficiency are at most risk of developing NSF through gadolinium based agents because their kidneys cannot properly excrete the gadolinium from the body over time.

The first appearance of NSF was reported in 1997.  The first publication describing NSF was in 2000.  And it was not until 2006 that the link between gadolinium based contrast agents and NSF was reported in a press release by the Danish Medicines Agency.  Relatively little time has passed since the emergence of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis in the medical field, and the understanding of this syndrome is still in its infancy.  As of now, there is still no known treatment plan for NSF.  However, research has shown that improving the function of the kidney, either by transplant or by healing processes, can stop NSF or even gradually reverse the effects.

Those stricken with NSF will encounter several painful symptoms.  Most noticeably, the patient’s skin will become hardened, swollen and tightened, which becomes painful to stretch.  Darkened patches of skin may also appear, as well as a burning and itching sensation of the skin.  There will be significant stiffness of the joints, leading to pain and difficult to bend and extend the arms, legs, hands and feet.  NSF can also affect internal soft tissue, resulting in deep pains in the ribs and a decrease in muscle strength.  Additionally, the whites of the eyes can grow yellow raised spots.

It is very important that those with serious kidney problems consult their doctor on the use of contrast agents.  An MRI scan can still provide good data without them, though under some circumstances, they might be deemed essential.  If this is the case, be sure to discuss the likeliness of developing NSF and if it is worth the risk.  MRI contrast dyes may still be used, but extra precautions must be taken and all guidelines for using gadolinium based agents should be followed exactly.

If you exhibit symptoms similar to those listed above and have recently undergone an MRI scan using a gadolinium contrast agent, call your doctor immediately.  If diagnosed with NSF, a secondary course of action is to consult with a lawyer to seek compensation for possible malpractice leading to side effects of gadolinium.