Is MRI with Gadolinium only test ?

[vi_lontano]

Hi

I had two episodes of pain (hours long relieved with lying flat) above and below left clavicle, full range of motion
pain not associated with movement
went to my breast surgeon who following me for abnormal mammogram
(last mamo and sono 3/09 looks like all I've got is a cyst in left breast)

he is insisting that only test that can look for masses in clavicle area is an MRI
with Gadolinium
I have CFIDS and Multiple Chemical Sensitivities and can't find any info on how safe MRI contrast would be for me

Are there any other possible tests that would provide adequate info?
I'm thinking of a second opinion but as I'm disabled by the CFIDS
and if there is no other option not sure of the worth of second opinion?

Is there a specialist who would know more about work up of clavicle?
Maybe I need a different type of MD...maybe he really is unfamiliar with options....

Really scared and worried
feel I can't win and don't know which reisk is the least risky

[Kamal S Saini, MD, MRCP (UK), DM]

Hi,
It is unusual for cancer to present with two distinct episodes of pain (which resolved spontaneously) and no distinct lump or mass palpable.
If your doctor wants to image the area, a plain MRI may provide some basic information of the local anatomy of the local neck and clavicular region. Although less informative than contrast enhanced imaging, plain MRI will still perhaps provide enough information to make meaningful clinical decisions.
Good Luck!

[vi_lontano]

thank you doctor for response

to answer your questions:

I spoke with my doctor and all he would say is that he knows of no other test to rule out a malignant mass in the clavicle area.

I went to see him because after the pain I noticed a fullness under my left armpit (same side as pain)

On exam he thought the fullness was fat and felt no lumps or bumps on clavicle area.

He just will not discuss any alternative to MRI with contrast. He says it's a contrast MRI or nothing!

Is there a specialty that might know more about the clavical area and other ways of ruling out malignancy?...that seems to be what he is concerned about

I'd rather not expose my sick and tired CFIDS body to any that is not absolutely necessary

[Kamal S Saini, MD, MRCP (UK), DM]

Hi,
Why do you think that there is a mass in or near your clavicle? Can you feel any swelling there? Has your doctor told you about any abnormal physical findings in your lower neck region?
Your chronic fatigue syndrome or any local non-specific musculo-skeletal cause may be the reason of your episodes of pain.
Also, have you had any trauma to that region? Do you have any cardiac problems? You should discuss these issues with your doctor.
All the best, and God Bless!