Gadolinium MRI Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis (NSF)

Gadolinium is an element used in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) scans as a contrast agent to increase the visibility and enhance the definition of tissue and organs. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved five different gadolinium composites: ProHance®, MultiHance®, Omniscan™, Magnevist®, and OptiMARK®.

Exceptional properties of gadolinium have benefited many patients. Unfortunately, dangerous side effects of gadolinium have been discovered and some have been confirmed as fatal.  Patients with kidney disease are at a high risk of developing nephrogenic systemic fibrosis, also known as nephrogenic fibrosing dermopathy (NSF/NFD), as a result of exposure to gadolinium. Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis (NSF) is a disease that has come to be linked with exposure to the gadolinium used as a radio contrast agent during MRI and MRA scans. Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) causes hardening of skin, rashes, itching and hives, breathing difficulties, impaired kidney function, renal failure and subsequently death. To date, no cure has been discovered for nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF).

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) became aware of gadolinium-induced side effects and on May 23, 2007, the FDA issued a black box warning on packaging and related literature, that gadolinium-based contrasting agents significantly increases the risk of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF).  Next to a full recall, a “black box” warning is the authoritative action taken by the FDA and any defaulting pharmaceutical companies can be fined for violating the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act.

Patients injured as a result of their exposure to gadolinium-induced nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) have successfully brought products liability lawsuits and consumer class actions against the manufacturers of gadolinium-based contrast agents and recovered damages for medical treatment, wage loss, damages for pain, suffering and emotional distress.

If you have been a victim of gadolinium-induced NSF or NFD, it is very important that you contact an experienced pharmaceutical injury lawyer, such as Doug Monsour, to learn more about your legal rights and options. Call or e-mail The Monsour Law Firm today. We will be happy to provide a free case evaluation and recommend a course of action.