MRIkontrastmedel

MRIkontrastmittel, also known as MRI contrast agents, are substances used to enhance the visibility of internal body structures during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. These agents work by altering the magnetic properties of water molecules within tissues, which in turn affects how the MRI scanner detects and images these tissues. By making certain tissues appear brighter or darker on the MRI images, contrast agents can help radiologists differentiate between normal and abnormal tissues, such as tumors, inflammation, or blood vessel abnormalities. The most common type of MRI contrast agent is based on gadolinium, a paramagnetic metal. These gadolinium-based contrast agents are typically administered intravenously. Other types of contrast agents exist, though they are less frequently used. While generally safe, MRI contrast agents can cause side effects in some individuals, ranging from mild reactions like nausea or headache to more serious, albeit rare, conditions such as nephrogenic systemic fibrosis in patients with severe kidney disease or hypersensitivity reactions. Therefore, it is crucial for medical professionals to carefully assess a patient's medical history and kidney function before administering any contrast agent. The decision to use an MRI contrast agent is made on a case-by-case basis, weighing the potential diagnostic benefits against the associated risks.