Parathyroid hormone, calcium and phosphate balance in hemofiltration

The acute changes in calcium, phosphate and parathyroid hormone have been examined in chronic renal failure patients under-going hemofiltration therapy and the results compared to a similar group treated by hemodialysis. In both groups there was a significant increase in Catot (0.32 mEq/1 for hemodialysis; 0.56 m Eq/1 for hemofiltration) with Ca++ remaining constant. Plasma phosphate and parathyroid hormone decreased during hemofiltration. Calcium balances were slightly positive and phosphate balances distinctly negative in all cases. To date there is no indication of induced osteodystrophy during hemofiltration therapy, although long-term studies are needed. However, the present results indicate, that hemofiltration more closely approaches the physiological situation than conventional hemodialysis.