MRI/MRA Contrast Agent & NSF/NFD

NEPHROGENIC SYSTEMIC FIBROSIS and
NEPHROGENIC FIBROSING DERMOPATHY linked to
Gadolinium-Based MRI/MRA Contrast Agent

The FDA issued a second public health advisory in December 2006 about a new skin disorder known as Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis or Nephrogenic Fibrosing Dermotherapy (NSF/NFD) that is linked to patients with moderate or end-stage kidney disease who have been given a Gadolinium-based contrast agent during an MRI or MRA scan. The disease is debilitating and may cause death.

Symptoms of NSF/NFD:

Hardening of the Skin
Discoloration
Burning
Itching
Joint Pain and Stiffness
Deep Bone and Hip Pain
Muscle Weakness
Scarring of Body Organs
Death

An MRI scan is performed to take a clear detailed picture of a patient's internal organs and tissue. An MRA is used to take a detailed picture of a patient's blood vessels. During some MRI scans and all MRA scans, a gadolinium-based contrast agent is injected into the patient's vein so blood vessels can be distinguished from other nearby tissues. The dose of gadolinium-based contrast agent given to patients undergoing MRA is often up to three times higher than the approved dose for MRI.

NSF/NFD is characterized by areas of tight and rigid skin that makes it difficult to bend joints. It may also result in fibrosis or scarring of body organs resulting in the inability of body organs to work properly, and can lead to death.

Your time may be short to collect compensatory or punitive damages for your serious injuries. If you or a family member has been diagnosed with NSF or NFD, have suffered any of the above mentioned symptoms, or has died after an MRI or MRA email us now for a free, private consultation. Knowledge is power - we'd like to help you!