A common dye used in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been linked to a potentially fatal disease for patients suffering with kidney problems. The dye is a gadolinium-based product, and the FDA issued an expansion on the black box warning earlier this year, stating that even a single exposure could cause nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF). Gadolinium is a magnetic ion and used in MRIs to help increase the usefulness of images by binding to different tissues.
NSF is not understood very well by doctors and scientists at the moment, but it causes a condition where the collagen in the skin builds up causing the skin to become hard and “marble-like.” Collagen may also build up in the lungs, heart, and liver and can cause death. This is an excruciatingly painful condition. Nearly all cases of NSF have been linked to the patients’ exposure to gadolinium dyes and have occurred within three months of the initial exposure.
Though the FDA has not approved any other dyes used for multi-purpose MRIs, a black box warning is the strongest warning taken before a product is banned.
Lawsuit Expiration
According to Beth Klein, an attorney who deals with gadolinium toxicity lawsuits, time may be running out for those seeking compensation. The first set of statutes is set to expire this week, Friday, June 6th. She states that after this date, many individuals will lose their legal rights to file, may have their compensation amount diluted, and some cases may be time barred.
You may want to consider speaking with an attorney if you have received an MRI and are experiencing any of the following problems:
- Burning, itchy, or swollen skin
- Tightening or hardening of the skin
- Red or dark spots on the skin
- Yellowing of the eyes
- Stiff or swollen joints
- Loss of movement
- Pain in the ribs or hips
- Muscle weakness or fatigue
Even if you have not received an MRI due to renal problems, if you or a loved one is experiencing any of the side-effect linked to gadolinium toxicity, see a doctor immediately. Also, please contact an experienced injury lawyer in your area as soon as you can to file a claim.
