Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis Symptoms
Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis symptoms include one or more of the following:
- burning and/or itchy skin
- hardened, darkened, shiny skin
- tight, sensitive skin that may be painful to the touch
- loss of joint flexibility
- joint pain (particularly deep pain in the hips or ribs)
- impaired movement
- muscle weakness
- yellowed eyes
What is Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis?
Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NFS) is a rare, serious condition in which fibrous tissues develop within the connective tissues of the:
- eyes
- internal organs
- joints
- skin
Causes of Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis
Although medical experts are still researching the precise cause of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis, it is currently known that this disease is related to:
- Exposure to certain MRI contrast dyes (These are substances that, when injected into the body before an MRI, will depict the structure and/or function of an organ on the resulting image.)
- Use of immunosuppressant medications, such as those prescribed to treat psoriasis, hepatitis C and certain types of cancer
Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis, which does not have a genetic basis, may also be referred to as nephrogenic systemic dermopathy.
MRI Dyes Related to NSF
Some of the brand names of MRI contrast agents known to contribute to the development of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis include:
- Magnevist
- Multihance
- Omniscan
- OptiMARK.
The active agent in all of these MRI dyes (i.e. the component related to NSF) is gadolinium, a silvery-white metallic element. Known to be toxic, gadolinium side effects can include:
- blood clots
- headache
- hypotension (significantly low blood pressure)
- lightheadedness
- nausea
- NSF (This is the most serious gadolinium side effect known to date.)
- severe allergic reaction (characterized by hives, breathing difficulties and facial inflammation)
To minimize the risk of developing gadolinium side effects, patients with kidney problems should not be administered gadolinium MRI contrast agents.
Following an NSF Diagnosis: Meeting with an Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis Attorney
As soon as an individual begins to show signs of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis symptoms they should seek immediate medical attention. Anyone diagnosed with nephrogenic systemic fibrosis should then:
- Follow through with all prescribed treatments for the best chances of recovery
- Meet with a personal injury lawyer who specializes in NSF lawsuits
An experienced attorney for NSF patients will thoroughly evaluate the details of the individual case and determine whether the patient has grounds for filing a claim. If the patient is eligible to file a NSF lawsuit, a qualified attorney will guide him or her through every step of the legal process, even trial if necessary.
Compensation for NSF Patients
By following through with a nephrogenic systemic fibrosis lawsuit, injured parties (including families of deceased NSF patients) can win compensation for their:
- funeral and burial costs
- past hospital bills
- ongoing treatment costs
- lost wages
- future living costs
- permanent disabilities
- pain and suffering
What to do Following Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis Symptoms
If you or someone you love begins to show signs of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis symptoms you should seek medical attention immediately. Once your diagnosis is confirmed, contact a nephrogenic systemic fibrosis lawyer for legal help. We will help you recover the compensation you need to pay for necessary nephrogenic systemic fibrosis treatment programs and medication.