Research may provide keys to preventing and treating NSF
The use of gadolinium based MRI contrast agents has been directly linked to the development of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) among individuals with kidney problems. Although it is known that the MRI contrast causes the painful and debilitating condition, researchers have been unsure of exactly why. A new study provides a possible explanation, and could lead to a strategy for preventing and treating NSF.
>>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.
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