Gadopentetate dimeglumine in craniospinal magnetic resonance imaging: common uses and some potential pitfalls.

In the first few years since its release for clinical use gadopentetate dimeglumine has become an integral part of craniospinal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Its efficacy and high degree of safety, as well as patient tolerance of the contrast medium, have made it indispensable for imaging small acoustic neuromas, metastases, meningeal disease, intramedullary tumours and recurrent disk disease. In addition, its utility for imaging other abnormalities is being increasingly recognized. Because the mechanism of this compound differs from those of other contrast agents, the pitfalls it can create are also different. Better and more affordable contrast media are expected to further increase the practice of gadolinium-enhanced MRI.