Has MRI Contrast got a deteriorating effect on Patients; What are the dangers of an MRI Contrast?

MRI

Ever wondered whether contrasts used during an MRI scan can cause major damages to patients apart from its induced allergy?

As in most cases of MRI Scan, the contrast Gadolinium is preferred. This Gadolinium-based contrast agents bring a very small risk of developing Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrisis, a very rare but life-threatening condition. This condition is characterized by the deposition of collagen in the skin and likely organ involvement of other organs or structures, including the muscles, heart, the liver, and the lungs.

CAN CT SCAN DAMAGE THE BRAIN CELLS?


Reason for it is not fully understood, but appears to be associated with the administration of linear Gadolinium contrast to patients with severe renal impairment. The vulnerability to Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrisis (NSF)  differs between contrast agents and appears to be dependent on their molecular structure:

  1. Lowest safety (linear non-ionic structure): Magnevist, Omniscan, OptiMARK
  2. Intermediate safety (ionic linear structure): MultiHance, Primosvist, Vasovist
  3. Safest (cyclical structure): Dotarem, Gadovist, ProHance

Linear contrast agents are most commonly used during MRI Scan. 

It is also important to note that no case Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrisis (NSF) have ever been reported in patients with normal renal function.