Gadolinium litigation involves 391 cases
Posted by Administrator (admin) on Oct 20 2008 at 2:21 PM
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391 lawsuits have been filed in state and federal court by individuals who claim that they developed a rare condition called Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis (NSF) after an enhanced MRI, court documents say.

Gadolinium contrast injections are generally used during MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) and MRA (magnetic resonance angiography) tests. These injections allow doctors to identify blood vessels from surrounding tissue by providing enhanced clarity to the images. But, in patients whose kidneys are not functioning properly, adverse effects of MRI contrast agents may result in hardening and thickening of the skin, which severely restricts movement. This can be fatal.

NSF, also referred to as Nephrogenic Fibrosing Dermopathy, is an uncommon progressive disorder that causes scarring or fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. The only known reason for the disorder is exposure to the gadolinium-based contrast agents.

At present, there are four separate manufacturers for the MRI contrast agents. They are:  General Electric, Bayer, Bracco and Tyco/Malinckrodt. Most of the NSF cases are connected to GE’s Omniscan. Some suits have been filed against the other manufacturers as well.

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