risk of repeated breast mri?

daisymae8585

for those undergoing frequent surveillance (mammograms and breast MRIs alternating) is anyone concerned about the IV dye contrast used in MRIs and how this could affect the kidneys over time? Also, with how mammograms started at an earlier age exposes a person to increased radiation? Just wondering if anyone had discussed this with their doctor?

vlnrph

Hi daisymae, how's lil abner? I played in the pit orchestra for that musical in high school...

Seriously though, I am sorry you have to be asking these questions. I'm post menopause so maybe not quite as concerned about increased radiation exposure as someone anticipating decades of scans ahead of them, especially with tomosynthesis/3D imaging that requires a higher amount. The gadolinium contrast agent used in MRI may be another issue however there was a study going at the academic medical center I use which means perhaps more information is being generated about effects on the kidney, etc.

If you have not found the FORCE website, I would suggest having a look. Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered, it is support for "previvors" and has a forum for youngsters undergoing long-term surveillance.

slv58

I had requested MRI surveillance from my breast surgeon because of the type of sneaky aggressive cancer I have. Originally she agreed but when I saw her for my post surgical apt. she told me that when she was part of the tumour board discussing my case that they talked about new information stating that the gadolinium contrast is showing up in the brain and staying. Because of this she has changed her mind and the fact that because of how quick my tumour appeared that the timing of an MRI would probably be useless. I have to agree with both issues.