John C. Hayes is editor of Diagnostic Imaging.
Sometimes we get to explore a controversy with a bit of historical perspective. That opportunity usually involves someone who has spent considerable time in radiology and has developed strong opinions about what the history shows. We have just such an example in a commentary from Prof. Dr. Peter Rinck that appears on page 23 of this edition.
Rinck, an expert in MR contrast, looks at the association of nephrogenic systemic fibrois and gadolinium. Probably better than anyone else, Rinck has the clinical and scientific knowledge, along with the business perspective, that allows him to reach some interesting conclusions about how this problem came about.
Some of what he reports those of us who have followed the NSF controversy know already: for example, that cyclic agents are less likely to be associated with NSF than linear agents. But there is much here that is new and reflects Rinck's considerable experience in the field, including inside knowledge gained as an instructor who taught physicians and vendor representatives about the mechanisms of gadolinium contrast.
As is appropriate in this setting, Rinck also imparts lessons learned. Coming in for criticism is an industry that failed to heed some of the warning signs and, especially, radiologists who pursued off-label gadolinium uses without fully understanding the mechanisms at work.
Rinck's column is a provocative article and worth your attention.
John C. Hayes is editor of Diagnostic Imaging.
Stay at the forefront of radiology with the Diagnostic Imaging newsletter, delivering the latest news, clinical insights, and imaging advancements for today’s radiologists.
The Reading Room Podcast: A Closer Look at Remote MRI Safety, Part 2
July 25th 2025In the second of a multi-part podcast episode, Emanuel Kanal, M.D. and Tobias Gilk, MRSO, MRSE, share their perspectives on remote MRI safety protocols for ensuring screening accuracy and adherence to conditional implant guidelines as well as a rapid and effective response to adverse events.
The Reading Room Podcast: Current and Emerging Insights on Abbreviated Breast MRI, Part 2
July 23rd 2025In the second part of a multi-part podcast episode, Stamatia Destounis, MD, Emily Conant, MD and Habib Rahbar, MD, discuss key sequences for abbreviated breast MRI and how it stacks up to other breast cancer screening modalities.
Chest CT for Post-COVID-19 Abnormalities: Nine Takeaways from a Multi-Society Consensus Statement
July 22nd 2025Developed by 21 thoracic radiologists, the new international consensus statement addresses appropriate indications, scan acquisition and keys to reporting for the use of chest CT imaging in evaluating for residual lung abnormalities from COVID-19.