Gd-DTPA

Gd-DTPA is a contrast agent used in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to enhance the quality of the images. It is a complex of the rare earth metal gadolinium (Gd) and the chelating agent diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA).

Chemical Structure

Gd-DTPA is a complex formed by the chelation of gadolinium by diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid. The gadolinium ion is paramagnetic, which means it has unpaired electrons. This property makes it useful as a contrast agent in MRI.

Uses

Gd-DTPA is used as a contrast agent in MRI. It is injected into the body where it accumulates in areas of abnormal tissue. The gadolinium ion enhances the contrast between normal and abnormal tissue in the images produced by the MRI.

Safety

Gd-DTPA is generally safe for use in most patients. However, it can cause side effects in some people, including headache, nausea, and dizziness. In rare cases, it can cause a serious condition called nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) in patients with severe kidney disease.

See Also

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging
• Contrast Agent
• Gadolinium
• Diethylenetriaminepentaacetic Acid
• Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis

Gd-DTPA Resources
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