Gadolinium
Gadolinium is an intravenously-injected contrast agent used in many MRI scans. This contrast agent was first approved by the FDA in 1988. Gadolinium has the effect of making vessels, highly vascular tissues, and areas of blood leakage appear brighter.
Gadolinium is excreted through the kidneys and only patients with severe kidney disease are at risk for the dangers associated with this chemical. There is evidence that the gadolinium contrast agents play a role in the development of Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis (NSF). NSF leads to excessive formation of connective tissue in the skin and internal organs. Possible signs of NSF include:
- high blood pressure
- burning, itching, swelling and hardening of the skin
- red or dark patches on the skin
- pain deep in the hip bones or ribs
- and muscle weakness
- severe stiffness in joints
- death
If you or a loved one has suffered from one or more of these conditions as a result of using a gadolinium contrast agent, you may be entitled to compensation. Call us at (478) 745-9002 for a free consultation.
