Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis Study Highlights Importance of MRI Contrast Screening

A new study published in the current issue of the medical journal Radiology, highlights the importance of screening individuals who require an MRI with contrast for kidney failure, renal transplants or liver transplants. This also underscores the damage done by the manufacturers of these gadolinium MRI contrast agents when they failed to adequately research their products or warn doctors about the risk of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) among certain patients.

>>INFORMATION: Gadolinium NSF Lawsuits

The study, which was done by researchers at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore, Maryland, involved a review of all cases of NSF at an institution between 2003 and 2008. A total of 33 individuals were found to have developed the condition within 1 year after an MRI or MRA with contrast, and all had advanced renal or kidney failure when the gadolinium was injected.

NSF is a progressive condition which involves a hardening and thickening of the skin, particularly around the joints of the arms and legs. It results in severe restrictions on movement, often requiring use of a wheelchair and it is ultimately fatal in many cases.

The association between NSF and the use of gadolinium contrast agents was first identified in June 2006 and the manufacturers did not add a black box warning about the increased risk among those with impaired kidney function until 2007.

The researchers found that the overall incidence of NSF was 36.5 cases per 100,000 gadolinium enhanced MRIs between 2003 and 2006, but only 4 cases per 100,000 examinations between 2007 and 2008 when screening was being done at the institution. Therefore the findings further support the importance of doctors being notified about the risk of NSF so that patients could be properly screened.

NEPHROGENIC SYSTEMIC FIBROSIS LAWYERS

The gadolinium lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. represent individuals throughout the United States who are pursuing nephrogenic systemic fibrosis lawsuits against the makers of these contrast agents for failing to take steps to warn that individuals who require an enhanced MRI should be screened for acute and chronic kidney failure and liver or kidney transplants.

New MRI lawsuits are continuing to be reviewed for individuals who have been diagnosed with NSF, or for those with pre-existing kidney problems or liver transplants who have developed symptoms of the devastating condition, which 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 Limbs
• Pain in the Hip Bones or Ribs
• Generalized Muscle Weakness

To review a potential case with our nephrogenic systemic fibrosis lawyers, request a free consultation and claim evaluation.