Treating Symptoms of Nephrogenic Fibrosing Dermopathy (NFD)
Nephrogenic fibrosing dermopathy, or NFD, is a severe skin condition that affects patients with kidney disorders. The condition can develop after exposure to unsafe levels of a gadolinium-based agent, commonly used as contrast agents in MRI scans. The disorder causes hardened, thick masses on the skin, discoloration, skin inflammation, burning and pain, skin lesions, muscle weakness, and inhibited movement.
Treatments for NFD
Unfortunately, NFD is a chronic, progressive disorder with no current treatment to cure the disease or reverse its progression. However, there are some treatments currently under investigation for treating the symptoms of NFD, including:
- Reducing the dosage of anemia medications
- Oral steroids
- Synthetic vitamin D ointment
- Photopheresis, a treatment in which blood is removed from the body, exposed to UV radiation, and returned to the patient
- Plasmapheresis, or removal of blood plasma
- Certain anti-inflammatory medications
- Certain arthritis medications
- Certain antibiotics
- Medications to decrease blood thickness
- Physical therapy to slow the progression of joint problems
None of these investigative treatments have shown to cure or halt the progression of the disease, although some may slow its spread. However, many of the above treatments have other serious, dangerous side effects, rendering them ineffective or counter-productive for successful treatment.
Contact Us
If you or a loved one has suffered from nephrogenic fibrosing dermopathy because of exposure to a gadolinium-based agent, you may be entitled to compensation for your suffering and losses. Contact the gadolinium attorneys at the law offices of Williams Kherkher today at 800-761-3187 to explore your legal options.