Schedule for Scientific Symposium on Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis

Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis, which has also been referred to as nephrogenic fibrosing dermopathy, is a rare condition which has been associated with the use of gadolinium based MRI contrast agents among individuals with moderate to severe kidney failure. Next month, Yale University will be hosting the Second Annual Symposium on Nephrogenic System Fibrosis and Gadolinium Containing Agents to address the latest developments surrounding this relatively new condition, including mechanisms of the disease, clinical approaches and risk reduction. In advance of the May 10, 2008 conference, the schedule of what will be presented has been released.

Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis is a debilitating and life altering condition, for which there is currently no cure. It is associated with the progressive hardening and thickening of tissue, known as fibrosis, which is primarily visible on the skin around the arms, legs and other joints. As a result of the hard and thick skin, NSF results in severe restrictions on mobility, often leading to reliance on a wheel chair.

Although NSF was first recognized in medical literature in 2000, there is still not a lot known about how to best treat or manage the condition. By examining which treatments work and how to best manage NSF, many doctors are hopeful that the medical community will eventually find a cure or consistently successful course of treatment.

The 2008 NSF conference at Yale will feature presentations by some of the leading researchers on nephrogenic systemic fibrosis, including Shawn E. Cowper, M.D. Topics to be covered at the Second Annual Scientific Symposium on Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis and Gadolinium Containing Contrast Agents will include:

• Updates on Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis
• Review of the Clinical Spectrum of NSF
• Presentation of the Mayo Experience with NSF
• Overview of past, present and future considerations with NSF
• Panel Discussions
• Updates on the link between MRI gadolinium contrast agents and NSF
• Detection of gadolinium in nephrogenic systemic fibrosis
• Regulation of circulating fibrocytes in fibrosis
• Impact NSF has on the care of patients with renal disease
• Developing strategy in the U.S. for screening and risk reduction
• European perspective and experience with NSF
• Speech on the perspective of an NSF patient

NEPHROGENIC SYSTEMIC FIBROSIS LAWSUITS

The only known cause of NSF/NFD is the administration of a gadolinium contrast agents before an MRI or MRA. The makers of these contrast agents failed to properly test their product and warn about the potentially devastating side effects it can have for individuals with moderate to end state renal failure. Since information about the connection has been confirmed, the medical community has been able to take steps to reduce the risk of NSF.

The lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. are pursuing potential nephrogenic systemic fibrosis lawsuits throughout the United States for individuals who have been diagnosed with this condition after receiving an MRI or MRA with contrast. Symptoms of NSF could include:

• Burning, itching, swelling, hardening and tightening of the skin
• Red or dark patches on the skin
• Yellow spots on the whites of the eyes
• Stiff joints with trouble straightening or moving the limbs
• Pain in the hip bones or ribs
• Generalized muscle weakness

If you, a friend or family member have experienced problems following an MRI or MRA with contrast, request a free consultation and claim evaluation.