Gadolinium - Based Contrast Dyes
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has ordered black box
warnings for all gadolinium-based MRI contrast agents to apprise
physicians of possible severe and life threatening kidney damage
in at-risk patients who receive such contrast agents. Gadolinium
is a contrast dye used to help physicians determine healthy
tissue from unhealthy tissue in MRI tests. Gadolinium-based
contrast dyes include, Omniscan, OptiMark, Magnevist, ProHance,
and MultiHance. The FDA warning recommends that patients be
screened for kidney problems prior to receiving any
gadolinium-based contrast agent. Patients with kidney problems
are at an increased risk of developing nephrogenic systemic
fibrosis (NSF), a potentially fatal disease. NSF, also called
Nephrogenic Fibrosing Dermopathy (NFD) typically presents with
areas of tight and rigid skin. Within weeks of onset, many
patients become wheelchair dependent. In severe cases, NSF/NFD
leads to fibrosis or scarring of body organs leading to
multiorgan failure and death. The cause of NSF/NFD is not known,
and there is no consistently effective treatment.
The Belt Law Firm is currently handling cases involving gadolinium-based contrast dyes. If a gadolinium-based dye was used during your MRI or MRA and you have experienced medical problems as a result, you are urged to seek medical attention. It may also be important to contact an attorney who can discuss any potential legal claim you may have. If you would like more information about NSF/NFD, please call us toll free at 1-888-933-1514 or email us at info@beltlawfirm.com.
