Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis

Abstract

Nephrogenic fibrosing dermopathy/nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) is an emerging scleromyxedema-like cutaneous disorder of unknown cause that is seen in patients with renal failure, and the number of reported cases has grown significantly since its first recognition. Recent case reports associated the use of gadolinium (Gd³⁺)-based contrast agents with the development of NSF. Herein is reported an additional patient who had NSF and had multiple previous exposures to Gd³⁺-based magnetic resonance imaging studies and had marked improvement in pain and skin changes after a trial of intravenous sodium thiosulfate. Discussed are the possible association of Gd³⁺-based contrast media with the development of NSF and potential for the use of sodium thiosulfate in the treatment of NSF.