MRI Contrast Problems lead to FDA warning

Austin Kirk

By Austin Kirk
Posted May 23, 2007

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Today the FDA requested that a black box warning be added to MRI contrast agents which are gadolinium-based.  For those with kidney problems, an MRA or MRI with contrast could lead to a debilitating and potentially fatal condition known as nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF).  Problems with the MRI contrast agents have caused life-changing injuries for hundreds of people, and the nephrogenic systemic fibrosis lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. are reviewing potential lawsuits nationwide against the manufacturers of these contrast agents.

>>INFORMATION: MRI Contrast Problems

The gadolinium contrast warning will state that individuals with kidney insufficiency are at risk of developing nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) if they are given one of five MRI contrast dyes.  In addition, those who receive a contrast dye just before or after a liver transplant, or if they have chronic liver disease, could develop NSF since they have an increased risk of developing kidney problems.

Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis is associated with the development of thick and hard skin which covers the joints leading to severe limitations on movement.  In many cases those diagnosed require a wheelchair within weeks after the onset of symptoms.  The condition has also been associated with thickening or scarring of the tissues of internal organs.  For some, the condition can lead to death.

>>INFORMATION: Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis symptoms

The FDA has requested that all five gadolinium contrast agents add the warning to their label.  However, the majority of problems have been associated with Omniscan MRI contrast, which is manufactured by GE. The contrast dyes are approved for use with MRI, so that doctors can better visualize internal structures.  However, in many cases they are given off-label as a MRA contrast dye to aid in detection of heart disorders, strokes and vascular diseases.  When given during an MRA, the gadolinium contrast is given at much higher doses.

NEPHROGENIC SYSTEMIC FIBROSIS LAWYERS

If you, a friend or family member experienced MRI contrast problems you may have a claim.  The attorneys at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. are reviewing potential nephrogenic systemic fibrosis lawsuits for individuals with kidney problems or liver problems who experienced thickening of the skin or limited mobility after receiving an MRA or MRI with contrast.

>>REQUEST A FREE CLAIM EVALUATION<<

7 Comments • Add Your Comments

  • Mr. Walter Barnott says:

    I need more information, I just might need your help. Thank You
    Mr.Walter Barnott

    Posted on May 31, 2007 at 3:46 pm

  • Jeri Miller says:

    Does having a MRI in any way damage knee replacements and knee revision? My knees bothered me for weeks after this was done.

    Posted on June 4, 2007 at 4:54 pm

  • sylvester grant says:

    i recently had a procedure done which involved me drinking a liquid before the test was done.
    also a m.r.i where i was injected with dye.
    am i at risk.

    Posted on June 5, 2007 at 1:07 pm

  • Albert a pierce says:

    I have had at least 10 M.R.I. test with the dye, and I have had alot of leg pain and stiffness for the last ten years, I am now disabled from the pain,and lack of
    mobility, could that dye have given me these problems? (still fighting with social security) Thank You

    Posted on June 8, 2007 at 10:11 am

  • JESSE MYERS says:

    Albert,
    Good luck with Social Security, I too have had the very same issues that you have. I was recently diagnosed with Arachnoiditis it has came from the dye in mri’s in the early 80’s. I was told that I do not have any legal means of suing because of the statue of limitations. I have however got my SSD. Good luck and let me know how you make out.
    Jesse

    Posted on June 13, 2007 at 3:02 pm

  • Angela Wolford says:

    My husband was in the hospital in feb 07, with a serious infection in the left elbow. He was given a MRI twice during his hospital stay. After 4 days of being in the hospital he complained of pain through the right side of his lower body. I figured it was due to laying in the bed too long. A day or so later he was losing sensation in his foot. Six months later we have been to many Doctors trying to figure out what is causing my husband to suffer. He was a healthy man with an elbow infection cause by many years of machanical work. Now he can hardly get around. His right side is in pain, his right leg will hardly support his weight and his right foot causes him pain. All this is a result from being treated for a infection in the elbow.
    Angela

    Posted on August 21, 2007 at 7:04 pm

  • Michael McCann says:

    It has been recommended that I have an MRI to scan for possible cancer in the ureters leading to the Kidneys. The result affects the extent of a biopsy I need to investigate red spots on my bladder, also a possible cancer. In light of these comments, I will have to rethink the options here. Sounds like this may be like jumping from the frying pan into the fire. They’re going to be sheduling me for this, probably within a week.

    Posted on December 26, 2007 at 4:24 am

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