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Updated: Jun 28, 2025

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Published on: December 4, 2016
Gadolinium Contrast Agent Deposition in Children.
1Department of Radiology, Key Laboratory of Obstetric and Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
Gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs) can deposit in children's brains, confirmed by MRI and histology. This review examines gadolinium deposition in children and compares the safety of linear versus macrocyclic GBCAs.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Pediatric Imaging
- Neuroimaging
Background:
- Gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs) are widely used in MRI.
- Studies show gadolinium deposition in brain tissue after GBCA administration.
- Concerns exist regarding gadolinium retention, especially in pediatric populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current research on gadolinium deposition in children.
- To analyze studies using novel methods to detect gadolinium deposition.
- To compare the safety profiles of linear and macrocyclic GBCAs in pediatric patients.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on gadolinium deposition in children.
- Analysis of studies employing advanced imaging and histological techniques.
- Comparative assessment of safety data for different GBCA types in pediatric populations.
Main Results:
- Evidence of gadolinium deposition in deep brain nuclei on T1-MRI in children.
- Histological confirmation of gadolinium accumulation in various tissues.
- Emerging data comparing linear and macrocyclic GBCA safety in children.
Conclusions:
- Gadolinium deposition is a confirmed phenomenon in children receiving GBCAs.
- Further research is needed to fully understand long-term implications.
- Comparative safety data guides clinical decisions regarding GBCA selection in pediatrics.
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