From routine to selective: how updated MRI guidelines reshape gadolinium use in Germany

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a critical diagnostic tool and monitoring modality for multiple sclerosis (MS), frequently employing gadolinium-based contrast agents (Gd). However, concerns regarding the accumulation of Gd have prompted international guidelines (MAGNIMS-CMSC-NAIMS, 2021) to advocate for the limitation of Gd utilization. Consequently, we assessed of the impact of the 2021 guidelines on the use of Gd in MRI in MS patients in Germany by conducting a retrospective analysis of MRI data from 12,833 MS patients in the German MS Register (2019-2024). Generalized additive models were employed to analyze Gd use trends over time by MRI type (cranial, spinal, combined). From 2020 to 2024, a significant decline in Gd use was observed, with percentages dropping from 74.2 to 41.2% in cranial MRI, from 78.2 to 39.2% in spinal MRI and from 81.8 to 59.0% in combined MRI (p < 0.001). The most substantial decline occurred within the initial five years of MS. Gd use in MS MRI scans has significantly decreased in line with the updated guidelines. Nevertheless, its persistent utilization in over one-third of cases necessitates further examination.