[Dialysis amyloidosis and beta-2-microglobulin].

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Biomaterials Science

Context:

• Chronic kidney disease patients undergoing hemodialysis are at risk.
• Dialysis amyloidosis is a significant complication of long-term artificial kidney treatment.

Purpose:

• To present facts on hemodialysis amyloidosis, its manifestations, and the role of beta-2-microglobulin.
• To explore the relationship between dialysis membranes, beta-2-microglobulin removal, and amyloidosis development.

Summary:

• Hemodialysis amyloidosis manifests as carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis, spondyloarthropathy, and bone cysts, potentially leading to invalidism.
• Amyloid deposits in affected tissues are primarily composed of beta-2-microglobulin.
• Elevated beta-2-microglobulin levels in hemodialyzed patients, not effectively removed by standard membranes, are implicated in amyloidosis pathogenesis.

Impact:

• Understanding the role of beta-2-microglobulin and dialysis membrane biocompatibility is crucial for managing hemodialysis amyloidosis.
• Investigating advanced dialysis techniques like on-line hemofiltration may offer strategies to reduce the incidence of dialysis amyloidosis.