Doctors use Gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs) in around half of all pediatric MRIs. Gadolinium can increase the visibility of the internal structures as well as to help in the diagnosis of tumors and infection. However, researchers have now linked gadolinium retention in children.
About Gadolinium
Gadolinium is a chemical element carrying the atomic number 64 and the atomic symbol Gd. Belonging to a group of elements in the periodic table called Lanthanides, the chemical is a rare earth element typically used in microwave applications, color TV tubes, synthetic gemstones, compact discs, and computer memory. The medical community uses this chemical element as an injectable contrast agent when patients undergo magnetic resonance Imaging (MRI) and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) scans.
Before undergoing an MRI or MRA, a gadolinium contrast agent is injected into the bloodstream and is stored in the blood vessels and abnormal tissue. This is so doctors can easily detect and trace any problems found within the body. Previously, researchers said this chemical element was safe for use in MRIs and MRAs. In fact, the element is very toxic.
The kidney expels the chemical after receiving the injection. However, regardless of kidney health patients can develop complications from the element spreading in the body.
Pediatric Gadolinium Side Effects
Researchers discovered that 94% of pediatric contrast MRIs could contain gadolinium. However, the study insists that radiologists should reexamine the safety of pediatric gadolinium. These professionals should only be administering the safest agents and brands available. In 2016, many hospitals started switching from gadolinium to macrocyclic agents. They recommend everyone should stop using gadolinium in pediatric MRIs.
Doctors are familiar with nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF). This is a disease affecting the skin and internal organs and causing progressive fibrosis and lethal outcomes. However, NSF happens with kidney issues. Yet, statistics only have 23 children with NSF, all with pre-existing chronic kidney disease. Moreover, there haven’t been any new cases of pediatric NSF since 2012. As researchers know, pediatric gadolinium retention can still happen in children with healthy kidneys. Yet, many in the medical community still deny that the chemical agent retains in the body. Therefore, children are needlessly exposed to this dangerous element.
Get Justice For Your Child
A gadolinium lawsuit may be an option for patients suffering from gadolinium retention and related complications. Gadolinium in MRI and MRA scans can create chemical element retention in the body. Therefore, this increases the risk of gadolinium deposition disease. These conditions are accompanied by symptoms that include severe physical pain and cognitive difficulties. Affected patients and their loved ones may be able to file a lawsuit and recover damages.
For more information, contact The Michael Brady Lynch Firm. We offer free, confidential, no-obligation consultations. We have also over 20 years of experience helping consumers injured by unsafe products manufactured by large companies.
