FDA Video: MRI contrast dye warnings due to risk of NSF
The latest edition of the FDA Patient Safety News webcast features a segment about the dangers of MRI contrast agents containing gadolinium. For individuals with kidney failure, the MRI contrast dyes could lead to a serious condition called nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) or nephrogenic fibrosing demopathy (NFD).
>>INFORMATION: MRI Contrast Dye Problems
NSF is a rare condition which has only been identified over the past 10 years in kidney patients who received an enhanced MRI or MRA with gadolinium contrast agents. It is associated with the development of fibrosis, or scar tissue, which develops on the skin, muscles and internal organs. Skin often becomes hard, thick and tight, severely restricting movement of the joints. It is extremely disabling and could lead to fatal injuries.
MRI CONTRAST VIDEO
The FDA Patient Safety News NSF Video discusses the new labels for gadolinium-based MRI dyes which will contain warnings, as well as recommendations, such as:
- Avoid use of gadolinium based MRI dye in those with renal failure or around the time of liver transplant, unless it is essential to obtain the diagnostic information
- Screening for kidney problems should be done before administering the contrast, by obtaining a medical history or conducting lab tests.
- Do not exceed the dose recommended
- Do not re-administer the MRI dye until enough time has passed to ensure that the prior dose has been eliminated from the body
- For those already receiving hemodialysis who require an enhanced MRI despite the risk of NSF, they should consider prompt dialysis to reduce the risk of injury
>>LINK: FDA Patient Safety News: August 2007 Show
The MRI warnings and recommendations are now available since the connection between gadolinium MRI contrast agents and NSF has been confirmed. Warnings were not issued earlier since the manufacturers failed to properly research and test their product in those with kidney problems, prevented thousands of individuals with kidney insufficiencies from making an informed decision before receiving the contrast. Those who have been diagnosed with Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis were not given the opportunity to reduce the risk of developing the disabling and potentially fatal condition.
MRI DYE LAWSUITS
The lawyers at Saiontz, Kirk & Miles, P.A. represent individuals diagnosed with NSF or NFD who are pursuing an MRI dye lawsuit. Because NSF is such a new and rare condition, some physicians are not familiar with it, and there are many individuals who may be suffering from the disease even if they have not been diagnosed. Therefore, cases are being reviewed throughout the United States for anyone who with kidney insufficiencies who have experienced symptoms of NSF/NFD.
>>LINK: MRI Lawsuit TV Ad
If you, a friend or family member believe that problems ma be related to the MRI contrast dye, request a free MRI lawsuit consultation.
