Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis

If you or someone close to you has experienced a skin disorder called Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis (NSF), also known as Nephrogenic Fibrosing Dermopathy, (NFD) as a result of the injection of a gadolinium based contrast agent such as Omniscan used in MRIs and MRAs, you may have a lawsuit against the manufacturer.

NSF/ NFD occur almost exclusively in patients with kidney disease or renal dysfunction. NSF/NFD leads to thickened, rough and/or hard skin, which can lead to limbs becoming difficult to move. In some instances, NSF/NFD is a progressive disease that can also lead to death. Other NSF/NFD symptoms include:

• Red or dark patches on the skin
• Pain deep in the hip bones or ribs
• Burning
• Muscle weakness
• Yellow spots on the whites of the eyes
• Itching
• Swelling
• Hardening & tightening of the skin
• Stiffness in joints & trouble moving or straightening the arms, hands, legs, or feet

There is little known about this disease, a few studies have been done. The FDA approved Gadolinium in 1988, but since the number of NSF cases has been increasing, the FDA issued Advisories to medical professionals, warning them to use all possible caution when treating patients with chronic kidney disease.

NFS has been connected to the use of Gadolinium, a contrast agent used in preparation for MRIs (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) and MRAs (Magnetic Resonance Angiogram). Gadolinium is an ingredient in the injection, which is given before these procedures, with the purpose of creating visual contrast on the printed films, between normal and abnormal tissue. This enables the doctor to see your condition more clearly.

If you have kidney disease and have had any MRIs or MRAs since 1988, and you notice any symptoms that suggest NSF, contact your doctor immediately.