Many people have become severely ill after receiving a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan due to being injected with a dye known as gadolinium.

Gadolinium, a contrast agent sometimes given to people receiving an MRI or magnetic resonance angiogram (MRA), allows doctors to more effectively read the results of the scan.

The FDA’s “black-box” warning
In May 2007, the Food and Drug Administration issued a “black-box” warning for contrast agents containing gadolinium. This informed kidney disease patients who are injected with gadolinium dye that they might develop nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF), a serious condition also known as nephrogenic fibrosing dermopathy.

Patients with nephrogenic systemic fibrosis may experience a thickening of the skin or connective tissues of the body. These people, who have trouble bending or extending their joints, suffer from pain, decreased mobility and difficulty walking.

The muscles of the diaphragm, thigh or lower abdomen, or the lung vessels, may also be affected. In some cases, these gadolinium side effects can lead to death.

Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis may also cause patients to develop red or dark patches on the skin. Some individuals who experience NSF develop yellow spots on the whites of their eyes.

Many patients who have received a gadolinium injection for an MRI scan may be unaware that the dye was even used. Gadolinium dye is most frequently sold under the name Omniscan but may also be called OptiMARK, Magnevist, ProHance or MultiHance.

Gadolinium side effects
Because more dye is needed for an MRA, patients getting these scans may be at a much greater risk of gadolinium side effects.

If you have experienced unusual joint or muscle pain, or skin sores after receiving an MRI or MRA, a gadolinium contrast agent may be the cause. An experienced gadolinium lawyer can help you determine the reason for your injuries and provide you with information about filing a gadolinium lawsuit.

To speak with an attorney about your case, contact the law office of Sam Levine by calling toll-free at (888) 404-LAWYER or by filling out our online contact form.