A doctor at the Mayo Clinic is urging patients to learn the risks associated with certain kinds of MRI scans.

Dr. Carl F. Anderson is encouraging patients with kidney problems to consult their doctors prior to undergoing an MRI, as a different imaging test could be used as an alternative. Patients with kidney problems, Anderson explains, are at a high risk of developing nephrogenic systemic fibrosis after using a gadolinium-based contrast agent. Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis is a potentially fatal disease which "triggers thickening of the skin, organs, and other tissues," Anderson said.

According to the National Kidney Foundation, nephrogenic systemic fibrosis can "involve the joints and cuase significant limitation of motion within weeks to months in some cases."

Anderson said there is no specific concern about having an MRI without a contrast agent.

If you have developed NSF after being administered a gadolinium-based MRI contrast agent, please contact the gadolinium attorneys of Williams Kherkher by calling 800-761-3187.