MRI: Can gadolinium contrast agent cause kidney failure?

Someone told me that people with kidney problems shouldn't have an MRI. I need more information on this since I'm scheduled for an MRI and I have kidney problems. Will I be OK having an MRI?

- No name given / North Carolina

Answer

It depends on the type of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan you're scheduled to have. There are no special concerns regarding people with kidney problems having an MRI without contrast. However, there are concerns if people with kidney problems are given a gadolinium-based contrast agent during their MRI — especially if they have severe kidney failure (renal insufficiency).

Contrast agents — which are injected via an intravenous line in your hand or arm — are used to make MRI scans easier to evaluate. However, not all MRIs require a contrast agent.

In May 2007, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a black box warning that gadolinium-containing contrast agents may increase the risk of a rare but serious disease, nephrogenic systemic fibrosis, in people with severe kidney failure. No warnings were issued for any other contrast agents.

Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis triggers thickening of the skin, organs and other tissues. There's no effective treatment for this serious, debilitating disease.

Before you have an MRI, ask your doctor if a gadolinium-based contrast will be used. If the answer is yes, it would be wise to have your kidney problems defined and your level of kidney function evaluated before considering having an MRI exam with gadolinium-based contrast.

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Web Resources

• FDA: Information on Gadolinium-Containing Contrast Agents