Gadolinium contrast MRI lawyers discuss nephrogenic systemic fibrosis claims

Litigation of the gadolinium based contrast agents is commencing in state and federal courts across the nation. Attorneys continue to file cases for injured patients suffering with the nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF). The first case was filed in 2006, today there are over 400 lawsuits. Recently a case against GE Healthcare went to trial in United States District Court, in Northern Ohio.

Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis is a rare disorder, occurring in patients without a properly functioning kidney whom receive an injection of the gadolinium based contrast agent(dye) prior to an MRI. The disorder exhibits symptoms of fibrosis of organs and hardening of the skin. The only known cause of this disorder is the exposure to the gadolinium-based contrast agents. Unfortunately to present date, there is no known treatment or cure.

The FDA has mandated changes to the labeling on injection packaging, warning those with kidney conditions of the potential risks of receiving the contrast agent containing gadolinium. There are five gadolinium based contrast agents currently being manufactured by Bayer Healthcare Pharmaceuticals, Bracco Diagnostics Products, GE Healthcare and Tyco Healthcare. The contrast agents are known by the name-magnevist, prohance, multihance, omniscan and optimark. Two of the injection contrast agent manufacturing companies are settling cases and it is likely the others will soon follow.

If you have been exposed to gadolinium based MRI and contrast agents, contact the gadolinium exposure injury lawyers at Schultz & Myers be calling (866) 840-3636.