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Updated: Jul 6, 2026

5/6th Nephrectomy in Combination with High Salt Diet and Nitric Oxide Synthase Inhibition to Induce Chronic Kidney Disease in the Lewis Rat
Published on: July 3, 2013
[Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis: another problem for patients with chronic renal failure]
P-R Michelet1, C Stoermann Chopard, P-Y Martin
1Service de médecine interne générale, HUG, 1211 Genève 14. Pierre-Raphael.Michelet@hcuge.ch
Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) is a severe condition linked to gadolinium contrast agents in patients with kidney failure. Careful risk-benefit assessment is crucial before gadolinium use due to limited treatment options.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Radiology
- Dermatology
Context:
- Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) is a rare, severe fibrotic disease.
- NSF predominantly affects patients with chronic renal failure.
- High morbidity and mortality rates are associated with NSF.
Purpose:
- To highlight the association between gadolinium administration and NSF.
- To discuss the clinical presentation and systemic involvement of NSF.
- To emphasize the need for risk-benefit evaluation of gadolinium contrast agents in renal impairment.
Summary:
- Epidemiological studies link NSF to gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs) used in MRI.
- The disease manifests as cutaneous edema and fibrosis, potentially progressing to joint contractures and systemic organ involvement (heart, lungs, muscles).
- Currently, no proven effective therapy exists for NSF.
Impact:
- Underscores the critical need for caution when administering GBCAs to patients with kidney disease.
- Promotes informed decision-making regarding GBCA use, balancing diagnostic benefits against NSF risks.
- Suggests utilizing highly stable contrast media if gadolinium administration is deemed essential.
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