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GDS
89299
elements and is considered a nonessential element. Due to its paramagnetic properties, chelated
gadolinium is commonly employed as contrast media for magnetic resonance imaging and computer
tomography scanning. Gadolinium is eliminated primarily by renal filtration. In healthy subjects with
normal renal function, the plasma half-life of gadolinium is approximately 90 minutes. Patients with
reduced renal function exhibit an increased gadolinium excretion half-life. Gadolinium has been
associated with the nephrogenic systemic fibrosis in patients with impaired renal function. In this
syndrome, prolonged retention of gadolinium is thought to allow the gadolinium cation to dissociate from
its synthetic organic chelator and deposit predominantly in the skin, although other organs may be
affected as well. These patients are often severely debilitated by progressive skin thickening and
tightening. Fibrosis of skeletal muscle, lungs, liver, testes, and myocardium have all been observed, often
with fatal results. Because the ionic radius of gadolinium (3+) is similar to that of calcium (2+), it may
also deposit in bone. Three hemodialysis treatments are required to substantially remove gadolinium from
patients with impaired renal function; peritoneal dialysis is not effective.
Useful For: As an aid in the diagnosis of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis
Interpretation: Elevated gadolinium (>0.5 mcg/L) observed in a random urine specimen collected
>48 hours after administration of gadolinium-containing contrast media indicates impaired ability to
eliminate gadolinium. These patients have an increased risk of developing nephrogenic systemic
fibrosis. A normal value is 0.5 ng/mL) observed in a serum specimen draw >48 hours
Current as of January 3, 2013 2:22 pm CST 800-533-1710 or 507-266-5700 or MayoMedicalLaboratories.com Page 789