Contrast agent with MRI

jessie123
jessie123 Member Posts: 532
edited December 2018 in ILC (Invasive Lobular Carcinoma)

I haven't had an MRI yet, but will be seeing the surgeon on Tuesday and am sure she will order one. I'm terrified of that contrast agent (is that what it's called) that they inject into your vein before the MRI. I've read of the potential long term effects --- there was even a TV special on that. Have you heard of anyone with negative long term problems after having this injected? I wonder if the U.S. is using something safer -- but I don't think so.

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  • AliceBastable
    AliceBastable Member Posts: 3,461
    edited December 2018

    It's probably safer than having cancer.

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  • MCBaker
    MCBaker Member Posts: 1,555
    edited December 2018

    I have had several MRI's with contrast. Given the diagnostic strength of the procedure, it is more dangerous to decline based on such concerns. Even I can see the difference between contrast-enhanced normal and abnormal images.

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  • Luckynumber47
    Luckynumber47 Member Posts: 397
    edited December 2018

    My MRI discovered DCIS in the other breast that wasn't seen on the mammogram. I am so grateful it was found early and not after it had a chance to spread. I think it should be an essential part of the treatment plan. Leave no stone unturned.

    I had 2 MRIs with contrast - the first was screening and the second was a biospy. I had no problem with the contrast. The noise of the MRI really freaked me out, though, so I encourage you to ask for a Xanax. (and wear double earplugs - the squishy kind and the ear muff kind.)

    Best of luck with your new drs

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  • AliceBastable
    AliceBastable Member Posts: 3,461
    edited December 2018

    Since July I've had the contrast MRI, a couple of CT scans, I'm now doing radiation, and have another CT scheduled in January. I'll worry about all the stuff in my system later. It would be cool to glow in the dark or get superpowers, though.

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  • vlnrph
    vlnrph Member Posts: 1,632
    edited December 2018

    Certainly, have the scan. While gadolinium is a potentially toxic heavy metal, you won't be getting it several times during a few months. Assuming your kidney function is OK, it is safe however go ahead and drink plenty of water for a day or two to make sure it gets flushed out of your system as much as possible.

    My MRI showed a non-palpable ductal tumor which mammogram did not detect. The imaging also helped determine the size of the lobular lesion. With those problems in separate quadrants, I required mastectomy but I might have opted for that anyway. It is good to get all the information you can when making these decisions.

    Knowledge is power!

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  • jessie123
    jessie123 Member Posts: 532
    edited December 2018

    Thanks to all of you for that. I feel better now. My appointment with the surgeon is today. I've been able to compile tons of questions for her just by reading this board for the last 3 weeks. I think that I am prepared for this interview. I'm going to ask for something to calm me down because this anxiety is going to stroke me out if I don't control it. However, I can't swallow pills, so I'll need something that I can crush.


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  • Anonymous
    Anonymous Member Posts: 1,376
    edited December 2018

    I've had several...no worries.

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  • dakrock
    dakrock Member Posts: 99
    edited December 2018

    Jessie123

    Ask for  (lorazepam)  It is very tiny and it calms me down immediately.  I take one every night around 8 PM because for some reason that is when I start freaking out.   By 10 PM I am so ready for bed and sleep all night. 

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