(February 4, 2008)

A recent study on nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) confirms a strong association between the use of gadolinium contrast agents and the development of NSF for those with kidney problems. Researchers found that the NSF death rate and risk of developing the condition may be much higher than originally thought for dialysis patients.

The findings are published in the October issue of Arthritis and Rheumatism. Researchers from Massachusetts General Hospital followed 186 kidney patients who were undergoing dialysis at six dialysis centers in the Boston area. The study found that 25 of the participants in the study developed skin problems consistent with NSF.

To increase participation in the study and reduce the risk of problems associated with a skin biopsy, the researchers chose to only do non-invasive skin examinations to make a positive diagnosis of NSF. Any individual who was found to have two of the three skin symptoms associated with NSF were classified as positive for the disease. These included a darkening, hardening or thickening of the skin.

The researchers found that the prevalence of NSF may be significantly higher than originally indicated in other studies. Prior reports indicated that those with moderate to end-stage renal failure face a 3% to 4% risk of developing NSF after exposure to a gadolinium based contrast used during an MRI or MRA. However, the researchers were able to review electronic medical records for about half of the patients in the study and found that nearly 30% of those with confirmed exposure to a gadolinium MRI contrast agent developed NSF.

NSF DEATH RATE

An unexpected finding from the study was that the NSF death rate was significantly higher for those with the skin problems than those without them. Of the patients diagnosed with NSF, the fatality rate was 40% within 2 years, compared to 20% for the dialysis patients who did not have the skin problems. The majority of the NSF deaths occurred within the first six months after the examination, indicating risk of early fatality associated with the condition.

An editorial by leading NSF researchers, Shawn Cowper, Philip Kuo, and Richard Bucala of the Yale University of School of Medicine, accompanied the study in the same issue of Arthritis and Rheumatism. They indicated that the findings of early skin changes may mean NSF is more common than was previously believed. This may also raise the possibility that there is a previously unrecognized early, less severe form of NSF.

MRI CONTRAST LAWYERS

The lawyers at Davis & Crump represent individuals nationwide who have experienced skin problems or other symptoms of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis after receiving a gadolinium contrast agent. Lawsuits are being reviewed for those who suspect their problems may be related to the contrast agent. To find out if you, a friend, or family member may qualify for a claim, call the attorneys at Davis & Crump at 1-800-277-0300.
 

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Davis & Crump is now handling claims for individuals who have been diagnosed with Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis (NSF) or Nephronic Fibrosing Dermopathy (NFD). Davis & Crump is experienced in pharmaceutical product liability cases and settlements. If you or a loved one has suffered Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis (NSF) or Nephronic Fibrosing Dermopathy (NFD), please contact us at 1-800-277-0300, or send us an email at info@daviscrump.com.