Gadolinium Attorneys
NFD (Nephrogenic Fibrosing Dermopathy) Symptoms
Nephrogenic Fibrosing Dermopathy (NFD), also known as
Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis (NSF), is a rare and serious syndrome that involves fibrosis of eyes, skin, internal organs, joints, and eyes. To this day, its cause is not fully understood, but seems to be associated with exposure to Gadolinium in patients with severe kidney failure. Gadolinium is a contrast substance frequently used for MRIs.
Most patients with NFD have undergone hemodialysis for renal failure, some have never undergone dialysis and others have received only peritoneal dialysis. Many patients have taken immunosuppressive medications and have other diseases, such as hepatitis C. Four of the five FDA-approved Gadolinium contrast agents have been specifically implicated in NFD, including OptiMARK , Omniscan, Multihance, and Magnevist.
NSF Symptoms include:
Skin and Eye Problems
- Burning or itching of your skin
- Skin Swelling
- Skin Hardening
- Skin Tightening
- Yellow raised spots on the whites of your eyes
- Reddened or darkened patches on the skin
Bone, Joint and Muscle Problems
- Stiffness in your joints
- Muscle weakness
- Problems moving or straightening arms, hands, legs, or feet
- Pain deep inside your hip bones and/or ribs
Diagnosing Nephrogenic Fibrosing Dermopathy
Diagnosis of NFD is usually done by looking at a skin sample under a microscope. NFD Patients have tight and rigid skin, making it hard for them to bend joints.
Nephrogenic Fibrosing Dermopathy (NFD) may also result in fibrosis (or scarring) of certain body organs. Fibrosis of internal organs can lead to death if the body's organs become incapable of working properly.
Skin Tightening in Nephrogenic Fibrosing Dermopathy
Patients with NFD describe swelling and tightening of the skin, typically in the extremities. NFD may develop over a period of days to several weeks time. In many cases, the skin thickening inhibits the flexing and extension of joints. Severely affected patients with NFD may be unable to walk or fully extend the joints of their arms, hands, legs, and feet. Complaints of muscle weakness are common with NFD.
Skin Rashes and Pains in Nephrogenic Fibrosing Dermopathy
NFD causes the skin to change, starting with reddened or darkened patches. Over the skin may feel tough and the surface texture may feel like that of an orange. NFD patients may experience burning, itching, or severe sharp pains in certain areas. Calcifications of the soft tissue may occur.
Nephrogenic Fibrosing Dermopathy (NFD) Lawsuit
If you had an MRI and a Gadolinium-based contrast dye was used to enhance the MRI image, then your health may be at risk. If you developed Nephrogenic Fibrosing Dermopathy (NFD), Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis (NSF), severe joint problems, skin problems, kidney failure, or renal failure, then you may be eligible to collect money damages for your injuries. Contact one of the
NFD lawyers at Williams Kherkher. He or she will be able to analyze your situation and make a recommendation about what to do next. This initial consultation is free of charge, so contact the firm today.