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03-Dec-2009
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Arch Hellen Med, 26(5), September-October 2009, 593-600 REVIEW Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis - gadolinium disease? D. ECONOMIDOU, P. PATEINAKIS |
Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) is a newly described disease, with no cases reported before 1997. It is characterized by fibrous thickening and induration of the skin with concomitant involvement of internal organs. It affects only patients with renal impairment and recent administration of gadolinium containing contrast agents (GCCAs). Because of its often relentless course and the ominous prognosis that it carries, NSF has gained significance in modern clinical practice. This review summarizes, among other topics, the current recommendations regarding the safe utilization of GCCAs in renal patients and the attempts being made to elucidate the pathogenesis of the disease.
Key words: Gadolinium, MRI, Renal failure, Systemic fibrosis.
