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Updated: Jun 25, 2026
04:44
Imaging Features of Systemic Sclerosis-Associated Interstitial Lung Disease
Published on: June 16, 2020
Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis
1Radiologen-Gemeinschaftspraxis, MRT im Friederikenstift, Hannover, Germany.
VASA. Zeitschrift Fur Gefasskrankheiten
|February 21, 2009
Summary
Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) is linked to gadolinium-based contrast agents in patients with kidney disease. Avoiding these agents in at-risk individuals is crucial for preventing NSF.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Radiology
- Pathology
Background:
- Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) is a debilitating condition primarily affecting patients with severe kidney dysfunction.
- Accurate definitions have distinguished NSF from other fibrotic disorders.
- A strong association has been established between gadolinium-based contrast agents (Gd-CA) and the onset of NSF.
Observation:
- Clinical manifestations of NSF exhibit significant patient-to-patient variability.
- NSF should be suspected in renal failure patients presenting with potential symptoms weeks after Gd-enhanced MRI.
- Skin biopsy from affected areas is recommended for histological confirmation of suspected NSF cases.
Findings:
- Unstable Gd-CA, such as gadodiamide, should be avoided in patients with renal insufficiency.
- No definitive curative treatments for NSF currently exist, making prevention the primary strategy.
- The declining incidence of new NSF cases reported in late 2007 offers a hopeful outlook.
Implications:
- Implementing strict guidelines for daily clinical practice is essential for NSF prevention.
- Management of identified NSF cases focuses on reversing renal failure or renal transplantation, alongside physical therapy and pain management.
- Continued reduction in new NSF cases could potentially render NSF a historical disease.
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