What is gadolinium, how does it work, and are there any side effects?
While most Radiology exams use the chemical iodine as a contrast agent, MRI uses the chemical gadolinium as its contrast agent. Because the gadolinium molecule has an unpaired electron, it produces its own magnet field and shows up on our scans as a white intensity. This white intensity can help us differentiate scar tissue, infection, and/or tumors. It can also be used to visualize the blood vessels in the body. Gadolinium is one of the safest contrast materials used in diagnostic imaging, but it can cause headaches, nausea, or dizziness in a small percentage of people. As with any medication, there is a small risk of having a more severe reaction. We are prepared and trained to handle these situations.
While most Radiology exams use the chemical iodine as a contrast agent, MRI uses the chemical gadolinium as its contrast agent. Because the gadolinium molecule has an unpaired electron, it produces its own magnet field and shows up on our scans as a white intensity. This white intensity can help us differentiate scar tissue, infection, and/or tumors. It can also be used to visualize the blood vessels in the body. Gadolinium is one of the safest contrast materials used in diagnostic imaging, but it can cause headaches, nausea, or dizziness in a small percentage of people. Patients with moderate to severe renal failure, diabetes, or 65 and older have a higher risk of complications with an injection of gadolinium. You may be asked to have a lab test, called creatnine, done prior to your MRI scan to evaluate your current kidney function. As with any medication, there is a small risk of having a more severe reaction. We are prepared and trained to handle these situations.
