Diseases and Conditions

Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis is made with:

  • Physical exam for signs and symptoms of the disease, and evaluation for a possible history of MRI using a gadolinium-based contrast agent when advanced kidney disease is present
  • A sample of tissue (biopsy) taken from the skin and muscle
  • Other tests as needed that may indicate involvement of muscles and internal organs