Optimark MRI Contrast Lawyers No Longer Reviewing Cases

OptiMARK (gadoversetamide) is a gadolinium-based contrast injection used before MRI and MRA to assist the physician in identifying blood vessels.

The OptiMARK MRI contrast has been associated with a significant and potentially fatal risk for those with kidney disease or impaired renal function.

It could lead to Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis, also known as Nephrogenic Fibrosing Dermopathy, which is a progressive disorder in which areas of tight skin develop over the joints, restricting movements.  It can also involve fibrosis of other organs and in some cases it could cause death.

Symptoms of OptiMARK side effects include:

  • Skin which thickens and becomes “woody” and “shiny”
  • Tightening of the skin around joints which impairs mobility
  • Swelling
  • Deep hip pain
  • Muscle weakness

OptiMARK lawsuits were previously investigated for those with kidney problems who were given the gadolinium contrast injection and suffered from NSF/NFD. New cases are no longer being pursued. This page is for informational purposes only.

OPTIMARK DANGERS

OptiMARK is one of five MRI contrasts which contain gadolinium.  The MRI contrast dye is manufactured by Mallinckrodt, Inc., and was approved in December 1999.

Nephrogenic Fibrosing Dermopathy/Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis is directly associated with gadolinium contrasts, and the FDA has issued a public health advisory alerting physicians to the risks posed when it is used in patients with impaired kidney function.  The disease often leads to need for a wheelchair within weeks of the first symptoms as a result of the tightening and contracture of the skin over the joints.  There is no known successful treatment currently available.

>>INFORMATION: Gadolinium Problems

OPTIMARK LAWSUITS

Those with kidney injury, kidney disease or impaired renal function have been warned to avoid an MRI or MRA with contrast using OptiMARK, or any other gadolinium MRI contrast.  OptiMARK is one of five gadolinium injections which have been associated with the development of NFD/NSF.  The others include: