Prudent gadolinium contrast use halts NSF

December 17, 2008 Prudent gadolinium contrast use halts NSF By James Brice Simple strategies, based on past experience with contrast-enhanced MRI for patients with compromised renal function, have helped radiologists and allied physicians bring the incidence of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis, a rare but deadly skin disorder, under control. NSF is strongly associated with gadolinium-based MRI agents administered to kidney disease patients. Symptoms, including a swelling and tightening of the skin, usually develop over several months, though rapid-onset disease affects of 5% of patients. The first case was documented in early 1997. The International Center for Nephrogenic Fibrosing Dermopathy Research at Yale University had identified 215 confirmed cases as of January 2008.

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