Gadolinium is used to obtain a brighter and better image on MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) and MRA (magnetic imaging angiography) scans. In people with kidney problems it can cause an incurable disease known as NSF/NFD.
NSF/NFD typically starts with swelling and tightening of the skin, frequently with red or dark patches. Usually only arms and/or legs are involved. It can progress rapidly to woody, thickened, distorted skin that can become so severe that the person cannot walk. There is no effective treatment.
Download Gadolinium Fact Sheet (MS-Word)
Download Gadolinium Fact Sheet (PDF)
Download FDA Warning Document (PDF)
You may want to consider contacting us if you have NSF/NFD or think you might have it, to discuss your legal rights. You can contact our Pre-Paid Legal Provider department at 1-800-464-2266.