A team of international researchers, gadolinium-based contrast agent (GBCA) manufacturers and members of the FDA gathered at the NIH to plan future research on the effects of gadolinium retention in human tissues. Their goal is to promote collaborative research efforts to gain a better understanding of the biologic changes that occur and their potential clinical significance.  The team reviewed the current research, acknowledged where gaps may lie and planned future research, focusing on solutions. It was agreed that there is a need to establish standardization and validation of GBCA tissue measurement methods and quality assurance procedures.

Future research will try to answer the following questions:

(a) if gadolinium retention adversely affects the function of human tissues, (b) if retention is causally associated with short- or long-term clinical manifestations of disease, and (c) if vulnerable populations, such as children, are at greater risk for experiencing clinical disease.

The team stated that “Not yet known is the extent, mechanism, chemical form, and clinical implications of chronic gadolinium retention for each GBCA in the general population and in vulnerable populations, such as children and those with relevant comorbidities that may be at higher risk for potential retention. These unknowns call for more systematic research and form the basis of this research roadmap to improve our understanding of gadolinium retention and its clinical importance.”  

Read the full report in the journal, Radiology, published on Sept. 11, 2018.

Please join the growing list of advocates and sign our petition so we can help promote the development of safer alternatives and effective treatments to remove gadolinium from patients affected by it.