Gadolinium contrast dye is often used by physicians to make it easier to interpret the results from MRI scans, or magnetic resonance imaging. The contrast agent is injected into the patient’s vascular system, where it spreads to the areas targeted by the scan and highlights the internal organs. The dye may make the images created by MRI scans easier for technologists to read. However, gadolinium dye may also result in dangerous side effects for some patients.

While gadolinium used in MRI has come under fire for side effects it may cause, it’s important to note that the contrast agent is not used in every diagnostic procedure. According to InsideRadiology.com, physicians order gadolinium used in MRI in about one out of three tests.

Its purpose is to provide a more detailed view of internal structures to determine if there is swelling, undetermined tissue masses, or compromise to the capillaries, arteries, and veins of the area in question.

When is Gadolinium Used in MRI Contraindicated?

If an MRI is ordered by your physician, you might first undergo the test without the contrast agent. If the images come back less than ideal, the radiologist might suggest using gadolinium to improve the quality of the scans.

Radiology nursing staff will often let the patient know if gadolinium is going to be used. This allows the radiologist to ask questions about possible contraindications.

InsideRadiology.com advises people who are pregnant, have a history of kidney disease or have had previous reactions to let their physician know beforehand so that he or she can discuss with the radiologist whether the potential benefits of using gadolinium outweigh the possible risks.

For people who have pre-existing kidney conditions, gadolinium contrast dye may result in additional side effects, as the substance is filtered out of the body through the kidneys. These side effects may include nephrogenic systemic fibrosis, a condition that causes thickening of the skin, organs, and other tissues.

What is Gadolinium Deposition Disease?

As indicated by Imaging Technology News, a 2014 study suggested gadolinium wasn’t released from the body as easily as previously thought.

The study revealed that the agent remained behind—at least in small amounts—and deposited in the brain. A number of patients believe that their overall health has been harmed by these deposits and the term Gadolinium Deposition Disease (GDD) has been coined. The subject has sparked controversy among radiology professionals.

It has been established, as indicated by ImagingTechnologyNews.com, that those with a compromised renal system have difficulty ridding their system of gadolinium contrast. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has placed a warning on the packaging of contrast agents.

What Are the Purported Symptoms of GDD?

While the symptoms of GDD are diffuse and the term equally as difficult to pin down, those that purportedly suffer from its effects are true believers. One of the highest-profile cases was a $10 million lawsuit filed by Gina Norris, wife of actor Chuck Norris, according to RadiologyBusiness.com.

In her November 2017 complaint, Gina Norris named several manufacturers and distributors of the agent as defendants. She claimed that as a result of being injected with three doses of gadolinium-based contrast agents within a three-week period, she suffered ongoing and life-altering consequences.

The symptoms Gina Norris and others have reported include severe tremors, numbness, shortness of breath, extreme fatigue, damage to kidneys, and an overall “fogginess of the brain,” migraines, bone and joint pain and tightness in the legs and feet. According to Gina, she is currently undergoing treatment for the disorder including stem cell therapy. However, as the disease has only recently been discovered, there is little research into what may cure it or ease the symptoms.

Other potential symptoms of gadolinium deposition disease may include a cutting or burning sensation in the arms and legs, or feet, pain affecting the neck or head, vision problems, hearing loss, memory issues, hair thinning or loss, skin itching, thickening, or discoloration, or nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

The condition may be debilitating for some patients, and result in medical expenses, pain and suffering, and mental anguish or depression. Victims who have experienced symptoms consistent with GDD after receiving gadolinium used in MRI scans may be able to hire an attorney to review their case and determine whether they qualify to pursue financial compensation for these damages.