Gadolinium-based contrast agents for imaging of the central nervous system: A multicenter European prospective study

Abstract

Contrast-enhanced MR (CE-MR) imaging is required to improve lesion detection and characterization and to increase diagnostic confidence. This study aims to evaluate the safety, effectiveness, and usage patterns of recently introduced ClariscanTM(gadoterate meglumine) and other macrocyclic gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs) used for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the central nervous system (CNS). Data was obtained from a European multicenter, prospective, observational postmarketing study that included pediatric and adult patients undergoing contrast-enhanced MRI with a GBCA used in routine clinical practice. Safety data was collected by spontaneous patient adverse event (AE) reporting. Effectiveness was assessed via changes in radiological diagnosis, diagnostic confidence, and image quality. 766 patients with CNS-related indications were included from 8 centers across 5 European countries between December 2018 and November 2019. Clariscan (gadoterate meglumine) was used in 66% (503) of exams, Dotarem®(gadoterate meglumine) in 20% (160), Gadovist®(gadobutrol) in 13% (97), and ProHance®(gadoteridol) in 1%. GBCA use increased the diagnostic confidence in 95% (724/766) of patients and a change in radiological diagnosis in 65% (501/766) of patients. The Clariscan-specific data revealed an increase in diagnostic confidence in 94% (472/503) of patients and resulted in a change in radiological diagnosis in 58% (293/503) of patients. Image quality was considered excellent or good in 95% of patients across all GBCAs and in 94% of patients who received Clariscan. No AEs were reported in this cohort including Clariscan. This data demonstrates the excellent safety and efficacy profile of Clariscan and other GBCAs used in MRI examination of the CNS.