Why Do Contrast Agents Used In An MRI Scan Cause Muscle Pain?

Posted on Thu, 8 Oct 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 8 Oct 2015 Answered on

Fri, 30 Oct 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I had a MRI ordered with Iodine contrast dyue, I am very allergic to it,have had a few close calls even in the hospital, anyway the doctor said it would not be a problem, because it was happening on an MRI, which I don't know what that means, buit I did not have a reaction as usual, but I had a CAT scan that day also, a a couple of x-rays also . But on the way home, I had trouble getting out of the car, still can't walk or bend, and barely able to even sit to get on the toilet.Question- could I have had a reaction anyway for this sympton to occuir, I am seeing the doctor today. I am 73, female.Allergies, to Sulfa and many other things.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Not a typical allergic reaction.

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thanks for using HCM.

I have read your question and understand your concerns.

Contrast medium used in MRI scan doesn't contain iodine, it is gadolinium, so, iodine could not be responsible for your symptoms, unless in the CT scan was used contrast medium.

Symptoms you describe, seems to be not typical of an allergic reaction, they seem to have a muscular cause.

It is possible after intravenous administration of contrasts to develop muscles soreness and stiffness because of accumulation of metabolites.

These symptoms should subside in few days, if they persist, further medical evaluation needed.

I don't think x-rays could show any abnormalities related to your symptoms.

Hope this helps.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Take care.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj