Are MRI’s and MRA’s Safe?
The popularity of MRI and MRA scans to help diagnose medical problems has grown dramatically. But for persons with kidney disease, these scans can be deadly.
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) and MRA (Magnetic Resonance Angiography) are used by doctors as a way to look inside your body and examine it for tumors, clogged arteries, brain irregularities and other problems. Some patients who undergo an MRI and all patients who undergo an MRA are injected with dye that helps the doctor see any problems.
However, if that dye contains a metal called gadolinium, a person with moderate to end-stage kidney disease could contract a disease known as Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis or Nephrogenic Fribosing Dermopathy.
Symptoms can develop over the course of several weeks. This disease attacks the skin, causing swelling and tightening of the skin, usually on the extremities. Those who contract a severe case may be unable to walk or to fully extend their joints. The skin’s texture may also change to a wood-like consistency or feel like orange peel. These symptoms will be accompanied by sensations of burning or itching and severe sharp pain. Some cases can be fatal.
If you or someone you know has experienced any of these symptoms following an MRI or MRA, we strongly recommend that you follow up with your family physician as soon as possible. At Terry Bryant Accident & Injury Law we are also happy to speak with you about protecting your legal rights. You can call our office at 713-973-8888 or toll free at 800-444-5000. Our specialists are available 24/7 to take your calls.
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