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Review
. 2021 May;51(5):736-747.
doi: 10.1007/s00247-020-04896-7. Epub 2021 Apr 19.

Safety issues related to intravenous contrast agent use in magnetic resonance imaging

Skorn Ponrartana  1   2 , Michael M Moore  3 , Sherwin S Chan  4   5 , Teresa Victoria  6 , Jonathan R Dillman  7   8 , Govind B Chavhan  9   10
Affiliations
Review

Safety issues related to intravenous contrast agent use in magnetic resonance imaging

Skorn Ponrartana et al. Pediatr Radiol. 2021 May.

Abstract

Gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs) have been used to improve image quality of MRI examinations for decades and have an excellent overall safety record. However, there are well-documented risks associated with GBCAs and our understanding and management of these risks continue to evolve. The purpose of this review is to discuss the safety of GBCAs used in MRI in adult and pediatric populations. We focus particular attention on acute adverse reactions, nephrogenic systemic fibrosis and gadolinium deposition. We also discuss the non-GBCA MRI contrast agent ferumoxytol, which is increasing in use and has its own risk profile. Finally, we identify special populations at higher risk of harm from GBCA administration.

Keywords: Adverse reaction; Children; Gadolinium deposition; Gadolinium-based contrast agent; Magnetic resonance imaging; Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis; Safety.

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