Gadalinium infiltration complications

My boyfriend had an MRI (lower back) and as the gadalinium was being injected 1-3 cc's ended up in the surrounding tissue because they went through the vein. He experienced severe pain at the time of injection and now almost 3 weeks later he is still having pain in the entire forearm. Can this cause perminant damage or will it eventually go away???

[dr_simran]

Hello KtMc13

The following information and facts about Gadolinium, would help solve your concern.
Generally, the side effects associated with the injection of Gadolinium are mild. The most common side effects are a mild headache, nausea, and a slight burning sensation at the site of the injection. In a few cases, the patient experiences lightheadedness and low blood pressure.
The serious side effect that occurs with the most frequency after an injection of a Gadolinium based contrast agent is an allergic reaction. The reaction is usually mild, but can quickly turn life-threatening if not treated promptly. The symptoms of an allergic reaction to a Gadolinium based contrast agent include itchy skin, hives, itchy eyes, and a rash. In severe cases, excessive sweating, facial swelling, and shortness of breath may be observed. In some patients, a localized allergic reaction can occur at the site of the injection. This reaction includes slight inflammation and irritation of the blood vessels and the vein subjected to the injection.
I believe you do not have any of these symptoms.
A severe side effect attributed to Gadolinium has been observed in patients suffering from advanced kidney disease and kidney failure. The condition is called Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis, also known as Nephrogenic Fibrosing Dermopathy and it is considered a very rare condition, with less than 300 cases of the condition confirmed worldwide. The condition is a relatively new one, with the first medical references to the condition appearing in the year 2000. Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis affects the skin and internal organs of the afflicted patients, resulting in thick, coarse skin that has the appearance of orange peel. In some cases, the condition has proved to be fatal.
Do not worry if you do not have any of these symptoms, its only a matter of a couple of weeks that it would be alright.
For further reading and understanding refer: http://www.schmidtandclark.com/MRI-Contrast-Agents-Lawsuit/Gadolinium-Side-Effects/

Best