Gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs) are essential for improving the diagnostic accuracy of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies. Although traditionally regarded as highly safe, in recent years the marketing authorisation for certain linear GBCAs has been withdrawn, and the use of macrocyclic GBCAs has become subject to regulatory oversight. Current recommendations advocate the use of the lowest effective dose at all times. Central nervous system (CNS) pathology is the most common indication for MRI with GBCAs. However, clinical recommendations and best practices in this setting often lack a comprehensive approach. This document presents recommendations for the use of GBCAs in the main categories of CNS disease—namely neuro-oncological, inflammatory, infectious and vascular conditions—as well as in CNS angiographic studies. These recommendations have been developed by a nationally convened expert committee. It also highlights the importance of ensuring clinical and environmental safety in the use of these contrast media.
Background and objectives Head and neck radiology (HN-Rad) is a subspeciality that is on the rise but not sufficiently consolidated in Spain. The main objective of this work is to assess the current situation of HN-Rad in Spain, focusing on organisational, educational, technical and multidisciplinary aspects. Materials and methods A structured 28-item questionnaire was designed and distributed through email and social networks between April and December 2023 by the Spanish Society of Neuroradiology (SENR) and the Spanish Society of Radiology (SERAM). Results A total of 149 valid responses were received. Most of them were obtained from tertiary hospitals (69 %). The age of respondents was over 40 years in more than 60 % of cases. While 79 % of centres had neuroradiology units, only 11 % had a specific head and neck section. A total of 78% used CT as the main imaging modality and 66 % performed MRI. A total of 84 % of respondents participated in multidisciplinary committees. Only 28 % offered specific head and neck radiology rotations for radiology trainees. Composite indices by thematic area were constructed to assess development across each centre. Conclusions HN-Rad is well established in Spanish tertiary centres, with high adoption of advanced imaging and multidisciplinary collaboration. However, significant gaps remain in training, report standardisation and its consolidation as a subspeciality. The number of responses limits reliable territorial assessment, although regional heterogeneity in the subspeciality’s development likely exists, supporting the need for national harmonisation strategies.
