After it is injected into a vein, Gadolinium accumulates in the abnormal tissue that may be affecting the body or head. This makes it very easy to see. Gadolinium is then rapidly cleared from the body by the kidneys. Gadolinium, gadolinium-DPTA, gadodiamide. Gadolinium allows the MRI to define abnormal tissue with greater clarity than ever before.
Tumors enhance after Gadolinium is given.
The exact size of the tumor and location are very important in treatment planning and follow up. Gadolinium is also helpful in finding small tumors by making them bright and easy to see. Gadolinium has been used for years in adults and children in the United States, Europe and Japan, without any serious complications in thousands of patients. The FDA declared Gadolinium safe for use in MRI in 1988. A few side effects, such as mild headache, nausea and local burning can occur.