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Safety profile of MRI gadolinium contrast vs. CT scan with contrast
Anyone else out there weighing the safety risks of MRI gadolinium-based contrast compared to CT scan with contrast used in monitoring aneurism size?
It seems in those with no renal impairment, the body can still retain gadolinium for months or even years afterwards. It deposits in the brain, bone, skin and other organs (although this was more pronounced in the older linear GBCAs, and less so with the newer macrocyclic GBCAs). It remains unclear what the ultimate effect is on brain tissue.
There is research out there supporting taking 100 mg of melatonin an hour prior to undergoing a CT scan with contrast, as this may counter radiolytic DNA damage and contrast induced oxidative stress.
My cardiologist is a big proponent of the MRI, but I am choosing the CT scan instead. What do others think? I have had both in the past, but it was my impression that the CT scan with contrast is the gold standard.
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I am just seeing this post as I searched for anyone out there that is concerned with the amount of radiation you’re exposed to with annual/semi annual CT scans as we monitor our aneurysms. I was considering asking for a MRI for future observation. I recently read in PubMed article that we are 30% more likely to develop cancer due to the radiation from CT scans. Does anyone have any concerns? I’m going for my 5th CT scan in 3 years this week. I have a family history of colon cancer and it’s a bit terrifying to know I put myself at risk for cancer trying to monitor my aneurysm.
@wags199
Unfortunately, we as patients are between a rock and a hard place. Both CT and MRI scans have downsides not generally addressed by the doctor. Yes, you are right to be concerned as to the very real cancer risk—but it seems to be a case of the lesser of two evils: Taking on a heightened cancer risk, or chancing longterm deposit of gadolineum in your tissues?
Doctors remain unaware of your total lifetime radiation exposure via medical diagnostics. That is up to you. It puts us patients in an uncomfortable position. We would like to think that doctors are the guardians of our health, monitoring all this—but other than we ourselves no one else has the time, nor frankly, the interest.
In my own case, I had had a series of chest CT scans for lung and heart issues. A recent CT indicated a possible heart valve problem that may have been caused by damage from—you guessed it, radiation exposure! But, maybe not. Kind of a gray area.
So it really becomes a matter of pick your poison, and hoping for the best.
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2 Reactions@thisnthat , ugh I'm having a CT tomorrow with contrast for ascending aortic aneurysm. Got me worried now.
Does anyone know what the protocol is if I have on Zio heart monitor?
I have called 3 places and txt Dr if I should remove it ahead of time. No answer anywhere because of Labor Day wkend. Only worn it 6 days.
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1 Reaction@jdssunflower
If you have never had a CT with contrast before, probably no big deal. It’s the cumulative effect of multiple CTs that may be more concerning. I’ve also had the Ziopatch. If need be, I’m guessing they can temporarily remove it to do the CT scan. In any case, they will be monitoring your heart during the test. Good luck tomorrow! 🍀
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2 ReactionsI am being monitored by the Cleveland Clinic for a 4.7 cm ascending aortic aneurysm. They have me getting annual MRIs without contrast. Given their high level of expertise, I trust the MRI without contrast as being a reliable technique. Avoids all concerns with the CT radiation and MRI gadolinium-based contrast. Downside? MRIs are EXPENSIVE!!
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5 Reactions@mm05897
A CT and MRI without contrast don't have the resolution etc. as ones with contrast. The biggest advantage of the MRI is determining how healthy the heart muscle is. Assuming that someone isn't going into the OR from the ER, MRI's with contrast are done just prior to open heart surgery.
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/gadolinium-contrast
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