title: Contrast agents in magnetic resonance imaging.
abstract: With the advent of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) it has become apparent that paramagnetic contrast agents may have a place in clinical practice. The mechanism of action, development, techniques of use and initial animal and clinical results are reviewed. Gadolinium diethylene triamine penta acetic acid (Gd3+-DTPA) has proved an effective paramagnetic contrast agent in experimental animals and clinical trials with this agent commenced in November-December 1983. Gd3+-DTPA will cross a damaged blood-brain barrier, is excreted mainly by glomerular filtration and is distributed mainly in the extracellular space. No short-term toxicity has been detected. Long-term toxicity is, as yet, unknown. Optimum dose, pulse sequences and timing of imaging remain to be determined by further studies but Gd3+-DTPA shows promise as a useful addition to MRI.
mesh_terms: D000008:Abdominal Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis; D000284:Administration, Oral; D001932:Brain Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis; D003287:Contrast Media / Q000008:administration & dosage; D004578:Electron Spin Resonance Spectroscopy; D006801:Humans; D009682:Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy / Q000379:methods*; D010386:Pelvic Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis; D004369:Pentetic Acid
chemical_list: D003287:Contrast Media; D004369:Pentetic Acid