The NSF lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. have been representing individuals diagnosed with this devastating and life-threatening condition for the past two and a half years. The vast majority of cases investigated and nephrogenic systemic fibrosis lawsuits filed involve the use of the Omniscan contrast agent, despite the 30% market share GE’s product has.

When we first began investigating the gadolinium lawsuits, manufacturers were not adequately warning that individuals with moderate to severe kidney failure could be exposed to this life-threatening disorder that causes a severe hardening and thickening of the skin.

In May 2007, the FDA required all manufacturers to add a “black box” warning about the risk. However, they did not specifically require GE to identify the increased Omniscan NSF risk, despite the fact that the contrast agent was by far the one most commonly associated with reports of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis.

It is important for the medical community to understand that Omniscan does not carry the same risk as other contrast agents, as steps can be taken to avoid exposing individuals to this condition, which does not occur unless gadolinium is introduced into the body.

In Europe, the Danish Medicines Agency has amended their recommendations to specifically indicate that the MRI contrast agent Omniscan should not be used in patients with severe kidney failure and in those who have had, or are awaiting, a liver transplant. For the other gadolinium contrast agents available in the country, doctors are cautioned to only administer them after careful consideration to patients with kidney failure, similar to the current warnings in the U.S. for all of the drugs.

The FDA announced last week that advisory committees will re-examine the warnings at a meeting in December 2009, where many expect that specific regulatory action will be taken to ensure that individuals with weak kidneys do not receive Omniscan. The agency needs to require GE to specifically identify the increased Omniscan NSF risk and contraindicate use of Omniscan for those with potential kidney problems.

OMNISCAN NSF LAWSUIT

The attorneys at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. are continuing to pursue Omniscan lawsuits against GE Healthcare for individuals who have been diagnosed with nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) or nephrogenic fibrosing dermopathy (NFD). Potential claims are also being reviewed for individuals who have experienced symptoms of NSF/NFD, such as:

• Burning, itching, swelling of the skin
• Development of "thick skin" or "hard skin" which appears shiny
• Red or dark patches of skin
• Yellow spots on the whites of the eyes
• Stiff joints which cause trouble straightening or moving the limbs
• Deep pain in the hip bones or ribs
• Generalized muscle weakness.

To review a potential case for yourself, a friend or family member, request a free consultation and claim evaluation.

>>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.

>>VIDEO LINK: Did MRI Complications Cause Young Man’s Death?

The lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. represent clients who have been diagnosed with nephrogenic systemic fibrosis after receiving an MRI with a gadolinium based contrast agent. The progressive disorder is known to occur in those with chronic kidney problems or renal failure and is associated with the hardening and thickening of the skin and connective tissue throughout the body. There is no cure or consistently successful treatment for NSF, and the condition slowly restricts movement of the joints. In most cases individuals diagnosed with NSF require use of a wheelchair and it leads to death in many cases.

For those who can not follow the video link, some of the key items outlined in the Fox Investigation Report include:

• NSF could have been avoided if those with known kidney problems had not been given the gadolinium based contrast agent as part of their MRI.
• Yale’s Dr. Shawn Cowper states, “There is evidence in the literature to suggest that certain products are probably more causative or more linked or associated with the disease.”
• European health authorities have treated the MRI contrast agents different than the FDA. While the FDA added the same black box warning to all five gadolinium contrasts, in Europe three of the drugs, Omniscan, Magnavist and Optimark, are contraindicated for those with severe kidney problems
• Omniscan, Magnavist and Optimark use linear formulations, which puts chemical lines or barriers between the toxic gadolinium and the body. However, these linear formulations are more unstable and tend to breakdown easier and release gadolinium into the body.
• At the time the FDA approved these drugs, medical research indicated that these linear formulations were more unstable and lawsuits allege that the pharmaceutical companies knew or should have know of the dangers.

NEPHROGENIC SYSTEMIC FIBROSIS LAWYERS

The lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. are continuing to review potential new cases for individuals diagnosed with NSF, or those who have experienced symptoms of the condition, such as:

• Burning, itching, swelling of the skin
• Development of "thick skin" or "hard skin" which appears shiny
• Red or dark patches of skin
• Yellow spots on the whites of the eyes
• Stiff joints which cause trouble straightening or moving the limbs
• Deep pain in the hip bones or ribs
• Generalized muscle weakness.

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

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.

>>INFORMATION: NSF/NFD and MRI Contrast Agents

Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis (NSF), which was originally known as Nephrogenic Fibrosing Dermopathy (NFD), is a devastating condition which leads to the development of areas of skin which are thick and hard, resulting in extreme pain and restrictions on mobility. There is no consistently successful treatment for NSF/NFD and many doctors remain unaware of the problems which can develop for kidney patients after they receive an MRI with contrast.

>>INFORMATION: Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis Symptoms

The NSF/NFD conference will address the latest developments regarding the rare condition, including disease mechanisms, risk reduction and clinical treatment approaches. The multi-disciplinary conference will include experts from many fields, including Dermatology, Dermatopathology, Diagnostic Radiology, Nephrology and Rheumatology from Yale as well as other institutions.

A lot of new information has been discovered in the short period of time since the connection was established between Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis and MRI contrast agents. Last spring, Yale held the First Symposium on NSF and MRI Contrast Agents, drawing attention in the medical field to this critical health concern. As more research is conducted and information is shared among researchers and physicians, better efforts can be made to prevent and treat this potentially fatal condition.

MRI LAWSUITS FOR INDIVIDUALS DIAGNOSED WITH NSF/NFD

The lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. represent individuals throughout the United States diagnosed with Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis (NSF/NFD) who are pursuing an MRI lawsuit to obtain compensation for their injuries. If you, a friend or family member have been diagnosed with NSF or NFD, or have suffered any of the symptoms of hard and thick skin after receiving an MRI with contrast, request a free consultation and claim evaluation.

>>INFORMATION: MRI Dye Lawsuits

Scottish researchers reviewed data for 1,826 individuals at two Glasgow hospitals who were under going renal replacement therapy for end-stage kidney failure between January 1, 2000 and July 1, 2006.  Approximately 421 of the patients underwent an examination with a gadolinium based MRI dye, and 13 were diagnosed with NSF.  In addition, the researchers found a significantly higher median cumulative dose of gadolinium among those diagnosed with NSF compared to those who received the contrast but did not develop the disorder.

>>INFORMATION: Gadolinium Side Effects

Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF), previously known as nephrogenic fibrosing dermopathy (NFD) is only known to occur in those with moderate to end-stage renal failure.  It is an irreversible disorder which is associated with the development of a hard and thick skin which could normally occurs on the arms, wrists, legs or ankles, resembling the texture of an orange peel. 

The fibrosis, or scarring, is progressive, painful and severely disabling.  Those who develop the condition often have difficulty moving their limbs and could require use of a wheelchair within a few weeks of the onset of symptoms.  There is no consistently successful treatment available and in severe cases it can lead to death.

The only known cause for NSF is the gadolinium-based dye used for MRI contrast.  The gadolinium in the injectable dye is drawn to magnetic fields, which helps distinguish veins from surrounding tissue.  The manufacturers’ failure to research their products and warn of this potential side effect prevented thousands of individuals with kidney failure from avoiding this life-changing condition.

MRI DYE LAWYERS

The gadolinium lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. are reviewing potential MRI dye lawsuits for individuals who suspect that they may be experiencing symptoms of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis.  Cases are being investigated nationwide, and there are no fees or expenses unless a recovery is obtained.  To determine if you, a friend or family member may have a claim, request a free claim evaluation.

>>INFORMATION: Gadolinium contrast linked to NSF

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 outpatient centers in the Boston area.  They 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 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.

>>INFORMATION: Symptoms of NSF

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 from Mass General 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 participants diagnosed with NSF, the fatality rate was 48% within two 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 an increased 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 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 LAWSUITS

The lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. represent individuals who have experienced skin problems or other symptoms of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis after receiving a gadolinium MRI contrast agent.  Potential MRI lawsuits are being reviewed nationwide for those who suspect problems may be related to the contrast agent.  To find out if you, a friend or family member may qualify for a claim, request a free case evaluation.

>>INFORMATION: MRI Contrast Side Effects Linked to NSF

Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF), previously known as nephrogenic fibrosing dermopathy (NFD), is a rare disease which is associated with the development of hard and thick skin, which severely restricts movement of the joints.  It was first identified in medical literature in 2000, and is only known to occur among those with kidney insufficiencies.  There is no known cure or consistently successful treatment available at this time, and many individuals are left severely disabled and dependent on a wheelchair within a few weeks or months of the enhanced MRI.

The October 2007 issue of the American Journal of Dermatology includes a study conducted by researchers at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center in Winston Salem, North Carolina.  Researchers compared the skin biopsies of several individuals diagnosed with NSF to those of healthy people.  The findings suggest that one particular enzyme may explain why those on kidney dialysis face a 2% to 4% risk of developing the condition following an MRI with contrast.

Researchers found a significant increase of an enzyme known as transglutaminase-2 (TG2), among those with NSF.  The enzyme is involved in blood clotting and wound healing. 

The gadolinium contained in MRI contrast agents may activate the enzyme and cause NSF, which explains why the fibrosis can also occur in other organs besides the skin, such as the heart and lungs.  Researchers indicated that this suggests the use of drugs such as cystemine, which inhibits the activation of TG2, may be a viable strategy for preventing or treating NSF.

Further research is needed, as the new study was limited in size.  However, identifying that the enzyme may be involved could be the first step towards finding a cure or treatment.  Finding a consistent method of preventing the condition may allow dialysis patients to take full advantage of the benefits provided by an enhanced MRI with contrast.

NSF LAWSUITS

If you, a friend or family member have been diagnosed with nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) or nephrogenic fibrosing dermopathy (NFD), financial compensation may be available from the makers of gadolinium based contrast agents.  Their failure to properly research their product and warn about the risk of NSF prevented those with kidney problems from avoiding the devastating condition.

>>REQUEST AN NSF LAWSUIT EVALUATION<<

>>INFORMATION: MRI Contrast Kidney Problems

The warning indicates that when gadolinium-based MRI contrast agents are given to those with kidney problems or liver conditions, it may lead to a serious and potentially fatal condition known as nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF). 

There are five different types of contrast agents used during MRIs and MRAs which contain gadolinium:

• Omniscan (gadodiamide) manufactured by General Electric Company’s GE Healthcare
• Magnevist (gadopentetate dimeglumine) manufactured by Bayer AG’s Bayer Schering Pharma
• OptiMARK (gadoversetamide) manufactured by Tyco International Ltd’s Mallinckrodt unit
• MultiHance (gadobenate dimeglumine) and ProHance (gadoteridol) manufactured by Bracco Diagnostics Inc.

NSF is a serious and painful medical condition which leads to excessive formation of connective tissue in the skin and internal organs.  It often appears as a hardening and thickening of the skin, primarily on the arms, legs or trunk.  The fibrosis causes severe limitations of the movement of the joints and in some cases it can lead to death.

The gadolinium boxed warning states:

WARNING: NEPHROGENIC SYSTEMIC FIBROSIS

Gadolinium-based contrast agents increase the risk for nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) in patients with:

• Acute or chronic severe renal insufficiency (glomerular filtration rate <30mL/min/1.73m2), or
• Acute renal insufficiency of any severity due to the hepato-renal syndrome or in the perioperative liver transplantation period

In these patients, avoid use of gadolinium-based contrast agents unless the diagnostic information is essential and not available with non-contrast enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).  NSF may result in fatal or debilitating systemic fibrosis affecting the skin, muscle and internal organs.  Screen all patients for renal dysfunction by obtaining a history and/o laboratory tests.  When administering a gadolinium-based contrast agent, do not exceed the recommended dose and allow a sufficient period of time for elimination of the agent from the body prior to any readministration.

The FDA has received reports of over 250 individuals who developed NSF after receiving the MRI contrast.  However, most expect that number to drastically increase as more physicians become aware of the symptoms and recognize the condition in their patients.  It is generally believed that the number of FDA reported adverse effects associated with medical products is between 1% and 10% of the true number of cases.

According to the FDA, there have been no reports of NSF among those with normal kidney function or those with only mild kidney insufficiencies.  The letter from the manufacturers estimates that the risk of developing NSF among those with severe kidney problems is about 4%. 

GADOLINIUM LAWSUITS

The gadolinium lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. represent individuals diagnosed with nephrogenic systemic fibrosis, previously known as nephrogenic fibrosing dermopathy.  The gadolinium contrast agents are the only known cause for this condition, and the manufacturers previously failed to provide adequate warnings about this potential problems for those with kidney insufficiencies.  If you, a friend or family member suspect that you may qualify for a gadolinium lawsuit, request a free claim evaluation.

>>INFORMATION: MRI Contrast Problems

Gadolinium is highly toxic metal which is used in the MRI contrast dyes because it is drawn to magnetic fields.  When injected before an MRI or MRA, the contrast allows the physician to differentiate blood vessels from nearby tissue when interpreting the exam. 

The contrast agent is administered as a chelate, which is supposed to protect the body from the toxic free gadolinium.  However, individuals with kidney insufficiencies may not eliminate the contrast from their body, and defects in the design of some the contrast agents could allow the gadolinium to separate from its chelate, causing NSF.

Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF), previously known as nephrogenic fibrosing dermopathy (NFD), is a progressive disorder which is associated with the development of scarring of the skin and connective tissue throughout the body.  It can result in a hardening and thickening of the skin, which could be described as leathery, rigid or course.  The hard and thick skin can severely restrict movement of the joints, and is painful and extremely disabling.  The fibrosis can also effect other internal organs, and in some cases it can lead to death.

>>INFORMATION: NSF Symptoms

WARNINGS ABOUT MRI PROBLEMS

The first written accounts of individuals with kidney problems experiencing a hardening and thickening of their skin following an MRI were published in medical literature in 2000.  However, reports indicate that the condition was observed by some doctors as early as 1997.

It was not until 2006 that the first warnings were issued about problems with the MRI contrast agents.  In 2006, the FDA warned that physicians should carefully assess the need for gadolinium MRI dye in patients with moderate to end state renal disease due to the risk of NSF.  In May 2007, a prominent black box warning was added to the contrast agents, indicating that the serious MRI problems could result for those with kidney insufficiencies.

Since the information about potential problems was released, independent researchers and physicians have been able to evaluate the risk and come up with steps to reduce the chances of NSF developing.  In July 2007, the American College of Radiology, added information to their guidelines on MRI safety about the problems and recommended steps that could be taken to reduce the risk of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis if an enhanced MRI is needed for someone with kidney problems.

The companies which make the MRI contrast agents should have designed their products to ensure that the toxic gadolinium is not released into the patient’s body.  In addition, they should have conducted research on the impact their product would have on those with kidney insufficiencies and warn about the potential problems.

The lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. are reviewing MRI law suits throughout the United States for individuals who have experienced symptoms of NSF after an MRI or MRA with contrast.  Problems could include dark patches, burning, itching, swelling, hardening or tightening of the skin, which usually develops on the arms, hands, legs or feet.

If warnings about the MRI problems had been provided earlier, those who are now suffering from nephrogenic systemic fibrosis may have been able to avoid the devastating condition.  If you, a friend or family member are concerned that problems following an MRI or MRA may be related to the gadolinium based contrast agent, determine if you may be eligible for a claim by requesting a free consultation.

This problem was highlighted last month in The (Nashville) Tennessean.  Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF), also known as nephrogenic fibrosing dermopathy (NFD), is a very rare condition which is known to occur in those with kidney insufficiencies after obtaining an enhanced MRI or MRA with a gadolinium-based contrast agent.  The condition is associated with the development of areas of hard and thick skin which cover the limbs and severely restrict movement of the joints.  It is very painful and disabling, and there is no known cure or consistently successful treatment.

>>INFORMATION: NSF Symptoms

Most doctors are not very familiar with NSF/NFD, which was first discussed in medical literature in 2000.  There are only a few hundred confirmed cases nationwide, but many expect the number to increase as more doctors become familiar with the condition.

Although there is no cure, some treatments have been successful for some sufferers by softening the skin and improving mobility.  However, given the limited number of people who have been diagnosed with NSF, most treatments are considered “experimental” since there have not been enough cases studied or evaluated.  This means that some individuals suffering from NSF are unable to obtain insurance payment for treatments which can become extremely expensive.

>>INFORMATION: Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis Treatment Options

NEPHROGENIC SYSTEMIC FIBROSIS LAWSUITS

The Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. are pursuing compensation for individuals suffering from the condition through MRI lawsuits against the manufacturers of gadolinium based contrast agents.  The manufacturers failed to fully test the impact their contrast has on those with kidney problems and provided insufficient warnings to those receiving the contrast.  As a result of the manufacturers’ negligent conduct, thousands of individuals were not provided an opportunity to reduce the risk of developing NSF, and now suffer from this devastating condition.

If you, a friend or family member have been diagnosed with nephrogenic systemic fibrosis or suffer symptoms of the condition, request a free claim evaluation.

>>INFORMATION: Gadolinium and Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis

Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF), previously known as nephrogenic fibrosing dermopathy (NFD), is a rare disorder which is associated with the development of fibrosis, or scarring, throughout the body.  It results in a hardening and thickening of the skin which can severely limit mobility of the body, and it can also impact internal tissues.  There is no known cure for NSF and in some cases it progresses rapidly.  Those who develop nephrogenic systemic fibrosis often require the use of a wheelchair and in many cases it contributes to death.

NSF is only known to occur in those with kidney insufficiencies who receive a gadolinium-based contrast agent during an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) or MRA (magnetic resonance angiography).  Gadolinium is a paramagnetic metal, which is administered as a chelate designed to protect the body from toxic free gadolinium. 

In a letter to the editors of the New England Journal of Medicine, researchers from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences indicate that those with kidney insufficiencies may be more susceptible to iron mobilization, which can cause the gadolinium to separate from its chelate leading to NSF.

Data reviewed by the researchers suggests that exposure to gadolinium-based contrasts, such as Omniscan, could substantially decrease total iron-binding capacity and increase iron mobilization.  The iron mobilization may lead to the break down of the chelate, and release the free gadolinium which could cause inflammation and injury to the body’s tissues.  Prior studies of those diagnosed with NSF have shown the presence of gadolinium and iron in biopsy samples of the skin.

NEPHROGENIC SYSTEMIC FIBROSIS LAWSUITS

The lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. are investigating Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis lawsuits for individuals who have been diagnosed with the condition or have symptoms of NSF.  The manufacturers of gadolinium based contrast agents failed to properly test the impact of their contrast on those with kidney problems and provided insufficient warnings to those receiving the contrast.  As a result of the manufacturers’ negligent conduct, thousands of individuals were not provided an opportunity to reduce the risk of NSF, and now suffer from this devastating condition.

If you, a friend or family member have been diagnosed with NSF or believe you may be suffering from the condition, request a free MRI lawsuit evaluation.

>>INFORMATION: MRI Contrast Dye Problems

NSF is a rare condition which has only been identified over the past 10 years in kidney patients who received an enhanced MRI or MRA with gadolinium contrast agents.  It is associated with the development of fibrosis, or scar tissue, which develops on the skin, muscles and internal organs.  Skin often becomes hard, thick and tight, severely restricting movement of the joints.  It is extremely disabling and could lead to fatal injuries.

The FDA Patient Safety News NSF Video discusses the new labels for gadolinium-based MRI dyes which will contain warnings, as well as recommendations, such as:

• Avoid use of gadolinium based MRI dye in those with renal failure or around the time of liver transplant, unless it is essential to obtain the diagnostic information
• Screening for kidney problems should be done before administering the contrast, by obtaining a medical history or conducting lab tests.
• Do not exceed the dose recommended
• Do not re-administer the MRI dye until enough time has passed to ensure that the prior dose has been eliminated from the body
• For those already receiving hemodialysis who require an enhanced MRI despite the risk of NSF, they should consider prompt dialysis to reduce the risk of injury

>>LINK: FDA Patient Safety News: August 2007 Show

The MRI warnings and recommendations are now available since the connection between gadolinium MRI contrast agents and NSF has been confirmed.  Warnings were not issued earlier since the manufacturers failed to properly research and test their product in those with kidney problems, prevented thousands of individuals with kidney insufficiencies from making an informed decision before receiving the contrast.  Those who have been diagnosed with Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis were not given the opportunity to reduce the risk of developing the disabling and potentially fatal condition.

MRI DYE LAWSUITS

The lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. represent individuals diagnosed with NSF or NFD who are pursuing an MRI dye lawsuit.  Because NSF is such a new and rare condition, some physicians are not familiar with it, and there are many individuals who may be suffering from the disease even if they have not been diagnosed.  Therefore, cases are being reviewed throughout the United States for anyone who with kidney insufficiencies who have experienced symptoms of NSF/NFD.

>>LINK: MRI Lawsuit TV Ad

If you, a friend or family member believe that problems ma be related to the MRI contrast dye, request a free MRI lawsuit consultation.

>>INFORMATION: MRI Complications

The MRI contrast agents contain gadolinium, a paramagnetic metal.  The metal is attracted to the magnetic field of the MRI, making the blood vessels stand out.  This assists doctors in diagnosing problems while interpreting the MRI scans.

In June 2007, the FDA placed a “black box” warning on the contrast agents containing gadolinium, after they were linked to the development of Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis (NSF) in those with kidney failure, kidney disease or other kidney problems.  Now that the association between NSF and MRIs is known, recommendations have been issued to help minimize the risk of problems.

>PRIOR POST (7/9/07): MRI Safety Guidelines

Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis (NSF) was first recognized in 1997 and first reported in medical literature in 2001, when it was known as Nephrogenic Fibrosing Dermopathy (NFD).  It is a progressive disorder which often starts with a stiffening or hardening of the skin which can severely limit mobility of the joints.  The painful and disabling disease does not have a cure or any known consistently successful treatment.

MRI COMPLICATION LAWSUITS

The lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. are currently representing individuals who are pursuing an MRI lawsuit to obtain compensation for problems caused by the contrast agent.  The manufacturers of the gadolinium contrasts failed to properly study the impact of their product on those with impaired kidney function, and they placed profits before the safety of the consumer.

If you, a friend or family member experienced MRI complications resulting in skin problems, stiff joints or other symptoms of Nephrogrenic Systemic Fibrosis, request a free consultation to determine if you may have a claim.

>>REQUEST AN MRI LAWSUIT EVALUATION<<