Immunologic studies of hollow-fiber dialyzer extracts

Testing failed to detect free isocyanates in dialyzer rinses or significant levels of immunoglobulin E antibodies to isocyanate-protein conjugates in the serum of individuals reacting during hemodialysis with dialyzers containing Cuprophan membranes. Extended immunization of rabbits with Limulus lysate-reactive material from dialyzer rinses demonstrated antigenic activity of the rinse that appears to originate from cotton linters used in hollow-fiber membranes. The possibility that an immunologic response to these antigens may be a mechanism in adverse reactions to hemodialysis is discussed.