Biocompatibility of cellulosic and synthetic membranes assessed by leukocyte activation.

Background/aims: The contact of blood with artificial surfaces may activate blood leukocytes and platelets and initiate the leukocyte inflammatory response. We have investigated the effect of a hemodialysis (HD) with a cellulosic- and a synthetic-based membrane on circulating leukocyte activation.

Methods: Samples were obtained from patients with ESRD at baseline, and at 15 and 120 min of a hemodialysis session from both the arterial and venous lines.

Erythropoietin does not modify the prothrombotic effect induced by uremic media on endothelial cells.

Recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO) administration has been associated with an increased risk of hypertension and thrombosis in uremic patients. rHuEPO and endothelial cells cultured in an uremic environment. Results indicate that rHuEPO does not exert an additional activating effect to that caused by the uremic media per se.