As MRI’s became more prominent, different companies began to formulate new products designed to provide doctors with more help in diagnosing patients on the basis of the results of MRI’s.  One such substance that was found to be of great help in MRI’s is gadolinium, which in its basic state is an element that appears on the International Periodic Table.  Gadolinium possesses properties that provide doctors with a visual contrast on MRI images that make injuries and potential problems much easier to spot.

For several years, gadolinium-containing products sold quite well and performed to their expectations.  Unfortunately, reports of serious gadolinium side effects eventually began to surface, and these reports led to scrutiny from several different sources.  Of the side effects that were reported, one condition above all others was most prevalent, and it’s a condition known as Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis, otherwise known as NSF.

NSF is an otherwise rare condition that has yet to be clearly solved because of both its rarity and its short time in existence.  Basically, those who suffer from NSF deal with symptoms that include the progressive hardening of the skin and ultimately decreased movement ability.  As NSF continues to advance, it can develop around joints and lead to broken bones in patients.

If you have had a gadolinium-containing agent injected into your system prior to an MRI and are experiencing any of the following symptoms:

• Tightening of the skin
• Bone pain
• Skin lesions
• Muscle weakness

You should seek immediate medical attention.

Additionally, if you have been injured as a result of using gadolinium, you may have the option of pursuing a gadolinium lawsuit, but you’ll need the proper guidance from a defective drugs attorney in order to properly make that decision.  If you’d like those answers, contact an attorney to schedule a free initial consultation.