Gadolinium is a rare earth metal used in magnetic resonance imagining to enhance the visibility of certain organs and tissue. In recent years, however, gadolinium has been linked to an increased risk for nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF), a potentially fatal kidney disorder in patients suffering from renal and hepatic disease. Additionally, other serious side effects have been associated with gadolinium use. Research established a strong enough connection between gadolinium and NSF to convince the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to issue a black box warning for gadolinium products. At White & Wetherall, we do everything we can to recover damages for victims who have suffered serious injuries and side effects caused by the use of gadolinium in MRIs.
If you have suffered debilitating or life threatening kidney problems or other disorders after receiving an MRI in which gadolinium was used, contact White & Wetherall today. We will evaluate your case and determine the legal options available to you.
Recognizing NSF and other Serious Side Effects of Gadolinium
While each patient is different, indications of the onset of NSF usually begin in the lower extremities, thigh muscles, lower stomach, diaphragm, or lungs. Since NSF results in a thickening of the skin, patients usually lose mobility due to an inability to bend or extend their arms and legs.
The following symptoms are may also be indicative of an adverse reaction to gadolinium:
- Burning and itching of the skin
- Swelling in the extremities
- Reddened or dark skin patches
- Yellowish spots in the whites of the eyes
- Joint stiffness
- Mobility problems
- Pain in the hips or ribs
- Muscle weakness
How do I know if I have NSF?
If you suspect you might have NSF, contact your doctor immediately. Since the onset of NSF symptoms can vary from days in some patients to months in others, it's best to seek the advice of your doctor as soon as you experience any unusual symptoms after an gadolinium MRI. While NSF is associated with patients suffering from kidney and liver problems, if you have an undiagnosed kidney or liver condition, you may not even realize you are at risk. As such, even if you haven't been told you have a renal or liver disease, if you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, seek medical help.
