Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis

Overview

Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis is an uncommon disease that seems to occur exclusively in people with chronic kidney disease or kidney failure. The disease causes extensive patches of thickened and hardened skin. Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis can also affect internal organs such as the heart and lungs and can cause a disabling shortening of muscles and tendons in the joints (joint contracture). Being exposed to gadolinium-containing contrast agents during MRI testing has been identified as a significant risk factor for development of this disease.

Why choose Mayo for treatment of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis

• Teamwork. Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis can affect many different body systems: kidney, skin, heart, lungs, liver and more. Typically, a kidney specialist (nephrologist) and a dermatologist work together to treat the disease. They are able to quickly and easily call in other specialists, as needed.
• Expertise and experience. Mayo Clinic has significant experience treating this uncommon disorder. Radiologists at Mayo are skilled at finding alternatives to gadolinium-containing contrast agents in at-risk people needing imaging tests.
• New treatments. Mayo clinician researchers are continually exploring new treatment options.

Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., ranks No. 1 for kidney disorders in the U.S. News & World Report Best Hospitals rankings. Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, Ariz., is ranked among the Best Hospitals for kidney disorders by U.S. News & World Report.