MRI with contrast, safe to have repeatedly?

suki1724

Maybe some of the 6-month clubbers can chime in. I had an MRI with contrast (first time with contrast) in February, of my abdomen, to rule out a pancreatic cyst. I found out that I'm PALB2 and ATM positive for mutation and P-ten VUS, so having my first breast MRI on Tuesday. I have many allergies and I'm sensitive to meds in general. I was ok with the first MRI in February, I had a cold feeling and a little nausea (with could have been from anxiety), and now again on Tuesday. My internal med doc said "it's fine" and the breast surgeon said she thought it was ok as long as it's more than a month. I just feel strongly that I have to look out for myself and wondering if anyone's had repeated MRI's with contrast?

vlnrph

Yes, I've had several, usually on an annual basis, and am a little concerned about possible accumulation of the gadolinium heavy metal used in the contrast material so may be backing off to every other year for screening.

The first agent I was given, during the diagnostic process in 2011, was MultiHance which produced an oddly warm/flushing reaction. I used the call button to inform the tech but was able to continue the procedure. Since then, I request OmniScan which has been well tolerated. Ask about a different brand for your next test.

There are well documented cases of kidney toxicity but most healthy people should be OK. The benefit of information gained should outweigh the risks however one must consider the potential harms, not to mention cost!