Tuesday, May 26, 2009

The Truth About Gadolinium and MRI Injuries

By Jim S. Adler

Gadolinium is a contrast agent or dye that is used in magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI. Without this agent, MRI procedures would not be helpful. As you may know, MRI is a non-invasive way for doctors to have a visual inspection of problems in the internal organs, nerves and tissues of patients. So, instead of opening up the cranium or other parts of the body to know a patients problems, they can just rely on the images provided by the MRI to determine conditions. Truly, MRI procedures have been helpful to many people. However, it is important to note that the injection of the contrast agent can also lead to MRI injuries.

By the way, the contrast agent that is being discussed is gadolinium. This colorless liquid is actually composed of metallic crystals, which are responsible for the luster that enables doctors to spot problems in tissues and internal organs of patients. Without this liquid, a good MRI is not achievable. The problem, however, lies in the fact that there have been many cases of MRI injuries that are specifically related to the use of this contrast agent.

Many people who have undergone MRI procedures complain of muscular problems, severe joint aches and skin inflammation. For some individuals, these symptoms can be temporary.

But for a significant number of people, the side effects of being injected with gadolinium used for MRI can be harmful if not fatal. There are patients who are suffering from kidney diseases and then, after an MRI, suffer such conditions as NSF (nephrogenic systemic fibrosis) and NFD (nephrogenic fibrosing dermopathy). For those who are fortunate enough to survive these MRI injuries, they could face a lifetime of suffering from debilitating pain in the rib and hip areas or recurring problems with their skin and eyes.

Also, gadolinium can severely affect patients who already have other inflammatory illnesses. This substance can contain certain amounts of toxicity which, no matter how low or moderate, can trigger MRI injuries not just in the eyes, skin, and joints, but also in the internal organs.

If you have been suffering from MRI injuries brought about by gadolinium, you have become a victim and not just a patient. And you should know that you have the choice to engage an experienced lawyer who specializes in this type of case.

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