Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis: a case series suggesting gadolinium as a possible aetiological factor

Br J Dermatol. 2007 Oct;157(4):783-7. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2133.2007.08067.x. Epub 2007 Jul 11.

Abstract

Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) or nephrogenic fibrosing dermopathy is a rare fibrotic condition that presents in patients with a history of renal disease. The aetiology is unknown, but it has recently been proposed that gadolinium, a paramagnetic contrast agent, may be a trigger of this disease. We report three patients with NSF with a history of use of gadolinium in magnetic resonance angiography a few weeks before the onset of symptoms. In the future, gadolinium should probably be avoided as much as possible in renal insufficiency patients until its role in the development of NSF is clarified.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Contrast Media / adverse effects*
  • Drug Eruptions / etiology*
  • Drug Eruptions / pathology
  • Female
  • Fibrosis / chemically induced
  • Gadolinium DTPA / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Hyperpigmentation / chemically induced
  • Hyperpigmentation / pathology
  • Magnetic Resonance Angiography / adverse effects
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Renal Insufficiency / complications
  • Renal Insufficiency / diagnosis
  • Skin / pathology*

Substances

  • Contrast Media
  • gadodiamide
  • Gadolinium DTPA