Background: Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) is a new and probably iatrogenic disorder. It was first described time in 2000 and associated with the use of gadolinium containing MR contrast media in patients with impaired renal function in 2006.
Material and method: We describe a case of NSF identified at Haukeland University Hospital and give a brief overview of the disease, based on literature retrieved from a non-systematic search.
Results and interpretation: NSF is a serious systemic disorder with active inflammation and fibrosis, particularly in skin, but also in other tissue such as skeletal muscle, heart and oesophagus. The condition is very difficult to treat. Awareness of the illness has led to changes in guidelines and clinical practice regarding use of gadolinium-containing contrast media in patients with renal impairment.