Aluminum in the dialysis fluid.

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Environmental Chemistry

Background:

• Aluminum exposure is a concern for patients with chronic renal failure on hemodialysis.
• Hemodialysis fluid is identified as the primary source of this aluminum exposure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the sources and variability of aluminum in hemodialysis fluid.
• To highlight the challenges in establishing safe aluminum levels for dialysis fluid.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of aluminum content in hemodialysis fluid components (water and chemical concentrates).
• Assessment of factors influencing aluminum speciation and membrane permeability in dialysis fluid.

Main Results:

• Hemodialysis fluid, comprising water and chemical concentrates, is the major source of aluminum.
• Aluminum concentration and species capable of crossing the dialysis membrane vary significantly based on water supply and daily fluctuations.

Conclusions:

• The complex nature of aluminum in dialysis fluid complicates the determination of safe levels.
• Further research is needed to define safe aluminum concentrations in dialysis fluid to prevent adverse aluminum transfer to patients.