MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is a common test to diagnose injuries to soft tissues such as muscles and organs. The contrast agent or “dye” may contain gadolinium, which is a rare earth metal. Gadolinium exposure has been linked to a serious disease called Gadolinium Deposition Disease (GDD).

 

Why Is Gadolinium Used in MRIs?

Magnetic imaging technology allows doctors to view soft tissues that cannot be seen by traditional x-ray machines. Contrast agents, or “dyes,” enhance the visual quality of magnetic resonance imaging. While there are different types of contrast agents, gadolinium-based dyes are more common. Since 1988, gadolinium was used in nearly half of all MRIs.

Why is Gadolinium Toxic?

Like any heavy metal such as mercury or lead, gadolinium is toxic if it attaches inside our bodies. The molecule of the contrast agent is intended to wall off the gadolinium component from the body. Once the MRI is completed, the contrast agents are assumed to be cleared from the body through the kidneys. However, certain molecule designs – particularly those that are linear in shape – expose the gadolinium, which causes it to deposit in the body. Over the past few years, scientists and regulatory authorities have raised concerns about the toxicity of linear gadolinium contrast dyes. Linear gadolinium is no longer on the market in many countries, and the FDA has issued a warning about its risks.

 

What Are the Symptoms of Gadolinium Deposition Disease?

GDD mainly attacks the skin and bones, but it can affect the brain as well. Symptoms include:

  • Pain in bones or joints, including ribs
  • Brain fog, or mental confusion
  • Pins & Needles/Tingling of skin/Muscle vibrations
  • Burning sensation of the skin
  • Skin rashes, thickening, discoloration, pain
  • Joint stiffness, decreased range of motion in arms, hands, legs, feet

Urine and blood tests can detect the retention of gadolinium in the body.

 

If you or someone you know suffers from gadolinium deposition disease or pain in bones, joints, skin, or mental fog after undergoing MRI procedures, you should seek immediate legal advice. Contact Johnson Johnson Lucas & Middleton at [link) or call us at 541-484-2434.

SAFETY ALERT:

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is a common test to diagnose injuries to soft tissues such as muscles and organs. The contrast agent or “dye” may contain gadolinium, which is a rare earth metal. Gadolinium exposure has been linked to a serious disease called Gadolinium Deposition Disease (GDD).

If you or someone you know suffered from from gadolinium deposition disease or pain in bones, joints, skin, or mental fog after undergoing MRI procedures, you might be entitled to bring a lawsuit.

The lawyers at Johnson Johnson Lucas & Middleton represents Oregonians injured by toxic products, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices. Please contact us for more information about your Gadolinium injury claim.