Gadolinium-based contrast agents: did we miss something in the last 25 years?

Radiol Med. 2016 Jun;121(6):478-81. doi: 10.1007/s11547-015-0614-1. Epub 2015 Dec 26.

Abstract

In the last 24 months, several clinical and experimental studies, suggested first and demonstrated later, a progressive concentration of Gadolinium in the brain of normal renal function patients, following repeated injections of some of the commercially approved Gadolinium-Based Contrast Agents. Although, till now, Gadolinium brain deposits have not been associated to any kind of neurological signs or symptoms, they oblige the radiology community to modify the actual approach in using Gadolinium contrast media in daily practice, to reduce unknown possible risks for patients.

Keywords: Chronic contrast adverse reaction; Contrast agents; Gadolinium; Human brain accumulation; Magnetic resonance; Safety; Trace elements.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Brain / metabolism*
  • Contrast Media / metabolism*
  • Gadolinium / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging*

Substances

  • Contrast Media
  • Gadolinium