Dear AuntMinnie Member,
The controversy over gadolinium retention from MRI contrast agents just got a lot more serious. Action film star Chuck Norris and his wife Gena filed a lawsuit yesterday against manufacturers and distributors of gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs) that they claim caused Gena to experience a series of debilitating illnesses.
The Norrises filed suit in a San Francisco court against 11 firms involved in making and distributing gadolinium contrast agents that Gena received as part of MRI scans in 2013. Since then, Gena has dealt with painful symptoms that have forced her to undergo a series of experimental therapies in search of relief.
Gena is just one of a number of patients who have experienced health problems that they attribute to gadolinium retention, and her litigation is one of 16 similar suits filed by the law firm representing her. But the fact that such a public figure is now involved in the gadolinium controversy could elevate the debate's profile -- and make things very uncomfortable for gadolinium contrast makers. Learn more by clicking here.
MRI of space travel
While you're in our MRI Community, but sure to check out this story on how MRI was used to detect the effects of long-term space travel on the brains of astronauts.
Researchers found that astronauts who spent more time in space experienced changes in brain anatomy that were not found in astronauts who spent less time in space. The results could influence planning for long-term space voyages such as a mission to Mars.
These stories and more news about imaging's heaviest modality can be found at mri.auntminnie.com.
On the Road to RSNA
Our preview of the scientific sessions at RSNA 2017 continues this week in our Road to RSNA special section. New modalities covered include MRI and CT, with more on tap for next week. Just go to rsna.auntminnie.com to start planning your schedule.
