Can Gadolinium Cause Prurigo?
What is Gadolinium? Gadolinium is a contrast medium used during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). It is clear, nonradioactive liquid that is injected into the veins. MRIs can be done without using gadolinium, but its use enhances the image and makes abnormal tissues appear brighter than normal tissue. Gadolinium is eliminated from the body by the kidneys. Gadolinium was first approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1988. Currently, five brands are available: Magnevist, Omniscam, ProHance, OptiMARK and MultiHance. Common side effects are mild headache, nausea, burning at the injection site, lightheadedness, low blood pressure and allergic skin reactions such as hives or rashes. In rare cases, gadolinium is associated with a serious condition called nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF). NFS is seen almost exclusively in people with kidney disease, although has been reported in people with no known kidney deficiencies. The FDA issued a warning advising against using gadoliniu
