Nephrogenic Fibrosing Dermopathy/Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis (NFD/NSF) and Gadolinium-Based Magnetic Resonance Contrast Agents (GBMCAs): A Literature Review

Abstract

Health Canada and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States have recently issued warnings pertaining to the use of gadolinium-based magnetic resonance contrast agents in patients with renal insufficiency. A strong temporal relationship between the administration of gadolinium agents and the development of nephrogenic fibrosing dermopathy/nephrogenic systemic fibrosis in this patient cohort has been established. This study presents a review of the literature, description of the disease, and discussion of possible contributing co-factors to its development. Best practice recommendations are provided for medical radiation technologists for management of patients with renal insufficiencies that may need to undergo magnetic resonance imaging with a gadolinium-based magnetic resonance contrast agent.