Diagnosis of Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis (NSF)
Only people who have been diagnosed with Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis (NSF) have a provable legal claim against the manufacturer of the gadolinium-based contrast agent(s) used for their treatment. This is because an NSF lawsuit is not a class action lawsuit. A person cannot file a lawsuit merely because they had an MRI with contrast agent. They must have actually suffered a specific injury, namely, having been diagnosed with NSF. At present, NSF can only be diagnosed by taking a deep tissue skin biopsy from an area of the skin with NSF symptoms. Punch Biopsy for NSF Diagnosis
The most common way to obtain a biopsy for diagnosing NSF is by taking a punch biopsy. The physician uses a device called a dermal punch.
 The dermal punch is held perpendicular to the surface of the skin. It is then pressed down into the skin and rotated clockwise and counterclockwise, cutting down into the subcutaneous fat. The punch is then removed, and the biopsy specimen is lifted out.
A suture may be necessary, depending on the size the wound, to speed healing time and reduce scarring. The biopsy is then examined by a dermatopathologist, a physician who specializes in diagnosing skin biopsies under a microscope.
A Dermatologist Should Perform an NSF Biopsy
A skin biopsy for NSF is best done by a dermatologist. Although family practitioners routinely perform skin biopsies, they frequently do not have punch biopsy tools that go deep enough to test for NSF. Dermatologists do, and perform the procedure more frequently. Better yet, visit a dermatologist at a university medical center if you have one near where you live. They are more likely to be familiar with NSF.
Undergoing a deep tissue skin biopsy is a big decision. The decision whether or not to get a biopsy is a decision that should be made by you and your doctor together.
Lawsuits for the MRI Side Effect NSF After Diagnosis
If you have been diagnosed with NSF after having a deep tissue skin biopsy, you may have a legal claim against the manufacturer of the gadolinium-based contrast agent(s) that caused your condition. Contact the MRI lawyers/NSF attorneys of DeCarli Law for a free consultation to learn more about your legal rights.
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