Engineers at the University of Pennsylvania have found a way to place a protective coat around iron-based contrast agents used in MRIs in order to reduce negative side effects associated with these agents. 

The coating would allow the contrast agent to interact only with areas containing tumors. The current contrast agents have coating that is sugar-based so as to be able to leave the body fairly easily, but these agents cannot stick to particular tissues. This new coating development of iron-based agents could allow for the agents to attach to diseased areas for easier detection of tumors. 

The engineers' research shows that the more malignant a certain tumor is, the more acidic the area around it is, thus allowing the contrast agent to detect it easier. They are hopeful that their research will change the way MRIs are conducted within the next seven years.  

The contrast agent, gadolinium, is frequently used in patients who undergo MRI scans. This contrast agent has been linked to several side effects. If gadolinium was used while you underwent an MRI and you developed a serious side effect, please contact the gadolinium lawyers of Williams Kherkher by calling 800-761-3187 today.