What is Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis?
Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis is a very new disease, first described in 2000, and as such, much research is still required on the subject. It seems to affect only those with moderate to severe kidney disease, and has a strong link to gadolinium-based contrast dyes, though the link has not been confirmed as a cause and effect link yet.
Treatment and prevention methods still need to be further investigated, but a number of different options have been tried that may be helpful.
Preventing Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis by Improving Your Renal Functioning
Since Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis appears to occur only in those with moderate to severe kidney disease, one way of helping to prevent it could be to work on improving your renal functioning. Strengthening a kidney disease patient’s renal system through immediate dialysis is the best way to protect and prevent development of NSF.
Avoid Gadolinium-Based Contrast Dyes If You Have Kidney Disease
If you have kidney disease and need to undergo an MRI scan, then request that gadolinium-based contrast dyes are not used, as these have a strong link to the development of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis. Although it has not been confirmed whether this is a cause and effect link, the FDA has warned against the use of gadolinium-based contrast dyes for kidney patients. Patients receiving MRI/MRA image testing that are administered gadolinium may have a higher risk/connection with contracting NSF.
Keep Informed About Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis
Since Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis is such a new disease, there aren’t a lot of verified studies at present on how to prevent it. Education is the number one method of prevention, or, if nothing else, will help prepare an individual if they are concerned with contraction of NSF.
Studies and research are ongoing to learn more about NSF.
First discovered in a patient in 2000, Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis (NSF) is a relatively new condition; as such, no prevention methods have been discovered. But, you may be able to prevent Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis by improving your renal functioning and avoiding gadolinium-based contrast dyes if you already have kidney disease.
Side effects of NSF include swollen, red and hardened skin which cause joints to become stiff, thus causing paralysis.
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