New MRI contrast agent study assesses risks

Rochester, MNNew research has found that some people experience MRI contrast side effects, which include kidney failure, Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis and various allergic reactions, when getting the common hospital test administered to them.

The study, which was performed at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, examined a total of 456,930 contrast agent doses administered to see if there were any MRI health risks.

Dr Christopher H. Hung, the lead author of the study, found 522 cases were identified of people experiencing side effects from the MRI contrast agents iodinated and gadolinium.

"The overwhelming majority of adverse effects were mild, represented with nausea and vomiting and mild rash," Hung said.
The doctor added that 16 cases in the study required transfer from the clinic for further observation and treatment.

Hung's research is scheduled to appear in the October issue of the American Journal of Roentgenology.

Gadolinium is an FDA-approved contrast agent used in MRIs to provide a clearer picture of organs and tissues for diagnosticians and doctors.