GADOLINIUM MRI CONTRAST DYE MAY BE LINKED TO KIDNEY FAILURE RISKS
The FDA has requested that manufacturers of Gadolinium add a new boxed warning about a debilitating and sometimes fatal disease called Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis (NSF) that affects the skin, muscle and internal organs. NSF apprears to only affect patients with kidney disease.
Background:
When a patient has an MRI or MRA scan, a Gadolinium contrast material or contrast dye is often used to make specific organs, blood vessels, or types of tissue such as tumors more visible on X-rays. However, the FDA is calling into question Gadolinium based contrast agents after a link was reported with patients whom had Gadolinium and Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis (NSF) also called Nephrogenic Fibrosing Dermopathy (NFD), a serious skin disorder.
What is NSF/NFD?
Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis (NSF), a systemic disorder characterized by thickening and tightening of the skin, was first observed in 1997 when it was known as Nephrogenic Fibrosing Dermopathy (NFD). It was later recognized that this syndrome can include fibrosis of organs and tissues which lead to it being renamed NSF. Several recent reports have described the development of NSF in people with kidney disease and impaired kidney renal function after their exposure to Gadolinium. The danger of NSF is that it can cause scarring on internal organs resulting in the failure of these organs leading to death or other serious complications. The FDA has received 90 reports so far of patients contracting NSF.
NSF/NFD Symptoms:
- Burning, itching, and sharp pains in affected areas
- Swelling and tightening of the skin, usually in extremities
- Red or dark patches on the skin
- Yellow spots or plaques near and on the whites of the eyes
- Stiffness in joints and trouble moving or straightening the arms, hands, legs, or feet
- Pain deep in hip bones or ribs
- Muscle weakness
- Hypertension usually precedes skin lesions
To date, NSF/NFD is linked to only affect people with kidney disease and impaired kidney renal function.
Gadolinium-based Contrast Dye for use during MRI are:
- Omniscan
- OptiMARK
- Magnevist
- ProHance
- MultiHance
Additional Information:
What can you do?
If a Gadolinium contrast dye was used during your MRI or MRA and you have experienced symptoms of NSF/NFD, you are urged to seek medical attention. It may also be important to contact an attorney who can help you protect your potential legal claim. If you would like more information, or would just like to talk with a lawyer experienced in this litigation, please call attorney Stacy Hauer at 1.800.755.0098 for a free consultation or click here to fill out an online free case review.
|
