I reported my reaction to a gadolinium dye after getting semi-severe hives during an unsuccessful MRI! I do not know which one, but I DO know it was reported, because I and my prescribing physician for the test reported it.
Hives and many medical issues do not get along well.
Now for my issues? I get PET scans, more expensive, yes. More thorough, ABSOLUTELY!
I've got a love/hate relationship with the PET scans. It's easy to do? YES. The 'radiated contrast'? Well..... the results? SUPER! The side effects of having these tests after several years? Not bad at all. [So Far] The quality of the results offsets [so-far] any possible detriments to me overall. The scans have been able to pick up potential problems before they become problems!
Overall? They are not for many? But, diagnostically for one who keeps having things pile up on things? It is great! And IT is seeming to pick up/out problems before they become problems. Only thing is the cost of such tests compared to other testing.
Start with the simple testing [IF you can tolerate it] then go on to the more extensive tests, such as PETS.
No reaction to a 'contrast agent'? IS GOOD! I just wish I'd not developed this 'reaction' as other screenings have value as well.
Good luck to all! But? IF you start itching like crazy? And get bumps? Get thee to your doc or a dermatologist ASAP! [Or both!] There are lotions and cremes that help keep you from going raw w/the scratching. And scratch you can! But, don't forget, on the other hand? That 95%+/- of folks do well with the mentioned contrasts. I just happened to fall into the other 5% by accident!
's to all - j