Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this article is to discuss nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) in detail regarding its history, possible pathophysiology, clinical and pathologic presentations, diagnosis, and implications for the radiology community. CONCLUSION. NSF is a potentially lethal disorder that occurs in patients with reduced kidney function. Current evidence suggests a strong association with gadolinium-based contrast agents-mostly used in MRI-in this patient group. This has urged the radiology community to emphasize careful screening for the presence of renal dysfunction among patients for whom gadolinium-enhanced MRI is contemplated. Appropriate selection of gadolinium-based contrast agent type, avoidance of nonstandard dosage, patient education, and informed consent have been recommended by authorities.