Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis (NSF) was first discovered in 2000 and the cause of this disease is still unknown to medical professionals and scientists. However, most of NSF diagnosis occur individuals who are suffering from kidney disease and have received an MRI or MRA in which gadolinium-based dye was administered. Although, there is no proven incident to officially connect the two.

Treatment and prevention methods still need to be further investigated, but a number of different options have been tried that may be helpful.

Preventing Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis by Improving Your Renal Functioning

Since Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis appears to occur only in those with moderate to severe kidney disease, one way of helping to prevent it could be to work on improving your renal functioning. Strengthening a kidney disease patient's renal system through immediate dialysis is the best way to protect and prevent development of NSF.

Avoid Gadolinium-Based Contrast Dyes If You Have Kidney Disease

If you have kidney disease and need to undergo an MRI scan, then request that gadolinium-based contrast dyes are not used, as these have a strong link to the development of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis. Although it has not been confirmed whether this is a cause and effect link, the FDA has warned against the use of gadolinium-based contrast dyes for kidney patients. Patients receiving MRI/MRA image testing that are administered gadolinium may have a higher risk/connection with contracting NSF.

Keep Informed About Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis

Since Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis is such a new disease, there aren't a lot of verified studies at present on how to prevent it. Education is the number one method of prevention, or, if nothing else, will help prepare an individual if they are concerned with contraction of NSF.

Studies and research are ongoing to learn more about NSF.

First discovered in a patient in 2000, Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis (NSF) is a relatively new condition; as such there is as yet no confirmed way to prevent it. But, you may be able to prevent Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis by improving your renal functioning and avoiding gadolinium-based contrast dyes if you already have kidney disease.

Side effects of NSF include swollen, red and hardened skin which cause joints to become stiff, thus causing paralysis.