Sadly, there have been numerous cases of gadolinium renal failure associated with those who have undergone an MRI scan with gadolinium as a contrast agent. Although medical professionals used the chemical in order to get a clearer picture from the MRI scan, some individuals experienced adverse reactions to the use of the chemical. This has been particularly true for those with kidney problems, as their kidneys are unable to filter out the gadolinium in a timely fashion. As a result, Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis develops and can lead to further medical complications.

What is the Gadolinium/Renal Failure Connection?

After being exposed to gadolinium, renal failure can become an even greater issue for those facing kidney problems. This is because there is evidence that those with Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis can control the disease better by gaining control of their kidney disease.

When a person experiences renal failure, which is also referred to as kidney failure, the kidneys stop functioning adequately. This can lead to a number of health issues, many of which can be chronic. Some of the health issues associated with renal failure include:

-Abnormal body fluid levels

-Abnormal levels of potassium and calcium

-Anemia

-Blood in the urine (hematuria)

-Deranged acid levels

If the problems persist over time, a person experiencing renal failure may also develop a variety of potentially fatal diseases, such as cardiovascular disease. Therefore, whether a person has Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis or not, it is still in his or her best interest to get the kidney disorder under control.

How Does Gadolinium Lead to Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis?

Using gadolinium as a contrasting agent to assist in MRI scans has been linked to Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis, which may develop in those that already have a weakened kidney. Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis causes fibrosis of the joints, skin, eyes and internal organs, which causes large areas of the skin to become hardened with plaques and nodules. This condition can severely limit joint movement and can disable a person to the point that he or she is bound to a wheelchair and it may even lead to death.

How is Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis Treated?

The primary method for treating Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis is to treat the patient's kidneys. By improving the patient's kidney function, the disease may be slowed down, stopped and possibly even reversed. Some other possible treatment options include:

-Cytoxan

-Extracorporeal Photopheresis

-High Dose Intravenous lg Therapy

-Oral Steroids

-Pentoxifylline

-Physical Therapy

-Plasmapheresis

-Renal Transplantation

-Thalidomide

-Topical Dovonex

-Ultraviolet Therapy

All of these treatments are still being researched, however, and not all people with nephrogenic systemic fibrosis can be successfully treated. Therefore, it is essential to avoid using gadolinium during an MRI scan if you suffer from kidney problems.