I have kidney disease because I am missing half a kidney. I get PET scans. They do a blood test first to make sure your kidneys can handle the radioactive sugar substance they inject which makes cancerous areas glow and even though I have kidney disease my results are always good enough to be able to tolerate the injection.
October 24
That's a really important question, especially since the contrast dye used in breast MRIs (called gadolinium) can be a concern for people with reduced kidney function.
The good news is there are several imaging alternatives that don't require contrast dye:
- Breast Ultrasound — Uses sound waves, no dye or radiation needed Show Full Answer
That's a really important question, especially since the contrast dye used in breast MRIs (called gadolinium) can be a concern for people with reduced kidney function.
The good news is there are several imaging alternatives that don't require contrast dye:
- Breast Ultrasound — Uses sound waves, no dye or radiation needed. It's great for telling the difference between fluid-filled cysts and solid masses.
- Mammogram — A standard or 3D mammogram (also called tomosynthesis) can still provide useful imaging without any contrast agent.
- MRI without contrast — In some cases, a breast MRI can actually be performed without the contrast agent, though the images may be less detailed.
It's worth having an open conversation with the care team about kidney function before any imaging. They can weigh the risks and benefits and find the safest option for the specific situation.
October 23