Actor Chuck Norris and his wife Gena Norris filed a lawsuit last week against several healthcare companies, alleging Ms. Norris was poisoned by a chemical used during MRI scans, according to a report from The Washington Post.
The lawsuit claims Ms. Norris developed gadolinium deposition disease after undergoing several MRI exams, later experiencing debilitating pain, a burning sensation throughout her body and cognitive deficits, among other issues. Gadolinium is a metal used as a contrasting agent to enhance the visibility of organs and other tissues during MRIs when clinicians determine the information from the imaging scan outweighs the chemical's risks.
The couple seeks $10 million in damages from MRI contrast manufacturers, arguing the companies should have appropriately informed them of the risk involved. However, many medical organizations, such as the American Society of Neuroradiology and American College of Radiology, support the use of gadolinium during MRI scans, according to the report.
"Over the past several years, my focus has been on Gena's health," Mr. Norris told the Post Tuesday. "And now we are working together to speak out about the dangers of MRI contrast agents."
Companies named in the suit include McKesson Corp. and branches of the Italian healthcare company Bracco S.p.A. Bracco told the Post it does not comment on pending litigation, but "takes patient safety very seriously and stands behind the safety of all of its products."
McKesson Corp. is reviewing the complaint and "will respond in a timely manner," According to the Post.
To read the full report from The Washington Post, click here.
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