Potential Risks of MRI Dye

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a valuable diagnostic tool that lets physicians know what is going on under the surface. To capture images, radiologists will use dye to increase the contrast and make certain elements more visible. While the dye is intended to detect harmful things within the body, it may also cause harm itself. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently taken a closer look at the substance and is urging drug manufacturers to do the same.

The dye used in MRIs contains gadolinium metal. When a gadolinium-based contrast agent (GBCA) is injected into the body, some of the gadolinium may remain in the body for months or even years. Gadolinium has caused complications for a small group of patients suffering from kidney failure, who have developed a rare skin condition after exposure to the drug. While no direct link has been established, concern has been growing about other potential health risks associated with gadolinium retention.

A lawsuit filed in November alleges that a patient became ill after gadolinium was used in multiple MRI scans. The patient felt weak and fatigued, and she experienced periodic pain and burning sensations. The patient’s family is suing multiple medical centers, claiming that the repeated exposure to gadolinium caused her symptoms.

FDA Calls for More Research Around Gadolinium

GBCAs have been in use for over 30 years, but the potential for gadolinium to remain in the body was only discovered recently. The FDA has issued multiple warnings in the past several months. The first was in September, when it called for a warning label on GBCAs stating the risk of retention in certain organs, including the skin, bones, and brain. In December, the agency recommended that radiologists consider whether GBCAs are needed, particularly for patients with chronic conditions who may need multiple MRIs, as well as distribute educational materials to patients so they understand potential risks.

The FDA is also calling for more research into gadolinium and whether it presents serious risks to patients.

Philadelphia Product Liability Lawyers at Galfand Berger LLP Fight for the Rights of Those Harmed by Exposure to Dangerous Products

If you or a loved one has suffered from illness or injury following exposure to gadolinium, call the Philadelphia product liability lawyers at Galfand Berger LLP.  Our knowledgeable, experienced lawyers will thoroughly review the facts of your case to determine if gadolinium was the cause of your injury, and fight to obtain the compensation to which you are entitled. With offices conveniently located in Philadelphia, Bethlehem, Lancaster, and Reading, we help victims of dangerous products throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Call us today at 800-222-USWA (8792) or contact us online to discuss your case.