Nephrogenic Fibrosing Dermopathy

Nephrogenic fibrosing dermopathy (NFD) is an older term for a condition now more commonly known as nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF). NSF is a serious condition that can occur in patients with kidney problems who have also undergone an MRI. Patients with the condition experience a hardening of the skin and joints, which limits movement. The condition has no cure at this time, although treatments do exist to reduce or slow the progression of symptoms.

Causes of NSF and NFD

NFD, now almost always referred to as NSF, develops in kidney patients who have recently had an MRI scan to look for other complications. During an MRI scan, a patient is administered a contrast agent that contains the chemical gadolinium. This contrast agent helps images appear on the screen during the MRI.

In most patients, after the MRI procedure is complete, the body safely filters out the gadolinium-based contrast agent. However, in patients with kidney disorders, the compound may instead be stored inside the body for a long period of time, since the kidney is responsible for filtering waste.

Patients exposed to this unsafe form of gadolinium for an extended period of time may develop NSF and suffer serious complications. If you have kidney problems, it is important to speak with your doctor about the risks of an MRI scan and any alternate options or procedures available to you.

Contact Us

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Nephrogenic fibrosing dermopathy or nephrogenic systemic fibrosis, you may be entitled to receive financial compensation to help you deal with your losses. To learn more, contact the gadolinium attorneys of Williams Kherkher by calling 800-761-3187.