**Warning: Potential Human Tissue Infiltration by Toxic Metal in MRI Scans!**
New research indicates that undergoing an MRI with contrast may result in the formation of nanoparticles that permeate your tissues. This study is in its early stages, and further investigation is required. Medical professionals emphasize that MRI with contrast is generally considered safe and essential for providing insights into your body’s internal functioning. However, preliminary findings suggest that the contrast agent used in some MRIs could trigger a reaction leading to metal nanoparticles becoming embedded in your tissues.
Meet the experts: Jamie Alan, Ph.D., an associate professor of pharmacology and toxicology at Michigan State University; Kelly Johnson-Arbor, M.D., a toxicologist at MedStar Health; Richard Reitherman, M.D., Ph.D., a radiologist and medical director of breast imaging at MemorialCare Breast Center at Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, CA; Jeffrey Luci, Ph.D., research assistant professor of biomedical imaging physics at the Rutgers Center for Advanced Human Brain Imaging Research. While the research is still preliminary, there is a need for further exploration before reaching concrete conclusions. Consequently, it is reasonable to have concerns. Here’s what the study revealed and what two toxicologists, a radiologist, and a biomedical researcher want you to be aware of regarding the safety of MRIs.
What did the study uncover?
The study, published in the Magnetic Resonance Imaging journal, conducted experiments in test tubes to investigate the presence of oxalic acid, a naturally occurring compound in various plant-based foods that binds with metal ions. The researchers examined how oxalic acid interacts with gadolinium, a metal commonly used as an MRI contrast agent (a substance injected into the body to enhance image quality by altering water molecules’ presence). The results indicated that oxalic acid caused small quantities of gadolinium to leak from the contrast agent, forming nanoparticles that infiltrated cells in different organs. It is important to note that this research was conducted in a controlled environment, and further studies are needed to determine if receiving an MRI with contrast could lead to similar outcomes.
What is gadolinium, and when is it used?
Gadolinium, a rare earth metal utilized in MRI contrast, is naturally occurring in the earth’s crust, mainly in minerals like bastnasite. Typically, gadolinium is tightly bound to other molecules and is eliminated from the body post-MRI (often through urine), minimizing adverse health effects. However, some studies have identified gadolinium residues in the kidneys and brain long after exposure to MRI contrast, with traces detectable in blood and urine over extended periods. While gadolinium is not employed in every MRI, it is commonly used in brain, breast, pelvic, and abdominal scans, but not typically in musculoskeletal MRIs. Therefore, if your healthcare provider suspects conditions like appendicitis or tumors, an MRI with contrast may be recommended.
An MRI with contrast is a common procedure. “Contrast is used for various purposes, and millions of people have received doses without any issues,” according to Dr. Reitherman. But why could gadolinium be harmful? The gadolinium atom itself is toxic, explains Jeffrey Luci, Ph.D., from Rutgers Center for Advanced Human Brain Imaging Research. However, when utilized in a contrast agent for MRI, it is encased in a large organic molecule to prevent its release, so it can be safely eliminated from the body. Side effects of gadolinium-based contrast agents can include a burning or cool sensation at the injection site, headache, or nausea, as per the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Severe complications like kidney injury, brain damage, or skin changes are rare but possible, with serious adverse effects occurring in only 0.03% of cases.
Certain populations, especially those with chronic kidney disease, may be more prone to adverse effects from gadolinium contrast agents. While concerns about gadolinium buildup causing health issues remain uncertain, ongoing research is essential to ensure safety. Unlike heavy metal poisoning, gadolinium nanoparticles do not exhibit symptoms of accumulation in the body. It is crucial to follow the recommendations of healthcare providers regarding the necessity of MRI with contrast for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Although more research is needed to understand the long-term effects of gadolinium, its usage in MRI remains crucial for certain medical conditions.
“Even if these formations occur in humans, it is essential to transition from basic science to human experiments in order to confirm their role in causing disease. Current conclusions are theoretical and further research is needed. If you have any questions, it is advisable to consult with your doctor. According to Alan, the safety of this imaging technique is generally high, with serious adverse reactions being rare. Luci emphasizes that there is no need to fear undergoing an MRI if your doctor deems it necessary for your health. Misinterpretations of the risks associated with MRI scans should be avoided. For more health-related content, you may also be interested in learning about the potential weight loss benefits of apple cider vinegar or makeup tips for women over 50 shared by Bobbi Brown.”
