Fatal skin disorder linked to MRI dye agent

Health Canada has notified hospitals about safety concerns over certain dyes used in diagnostic imaging that have been linked to a rare and potentially fatal skin condition.

Dyes that contain “gadolinium” are often used during a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) procedure. The contrast agent (dye) is injected into the body to make certain tissues more visible during an MRI.

The skin condition, linked to the gadolinium-containing contrast agents, is called Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis/Nephrogenic Fibrosing Dermopathy (NSF/NFD).

Currently, 109 cases of NSF/NFD associated with this gadolinium-containing contrast agents have been reported worldwide, with the exception of Canada.

So far, NSF/NFD has been observed only in patients with serious kidney disease, Health Canada said Tuesday in an advisory.

NSF/NFD may develop over a period of a few days to several weeks, with lesions on the skin the most visible effect.

The skin becomes thickened with a woody texture, restricting joint movement and resulting in the shortening or distortion of muscle tissue.

“Internal organs such as the heart may also be affected,” Health Canada said. “A skin biopsy is necessary to accurately diagnose this disease.”

Health Canada recommends that patients with serious kidney disease consult their health-care professionals to minimize the risk of developing NSF/NFD following an imaging procedure.

Consumers requiring more information can contact Health Canada’s public inquiries line at 613-957-2991, or toll-free at 1-866-225-0709.

Source : www.680news.com