[Alteration of beta2-microglobulin metabolism in terminal chronic renal insufficiency (author's transl)]

In 63 patients with chronic renal insufficiency treated with intermittent dialysis plasma beta2m concentrations were shown to be stable and increased 8 to 60 times over normal values. The excretion of beta2m is achieved either through residual diuresis (up to 150 mg/24 h) or by filtration through high permeability membranes of the dialyser. In the absence of extra-renal catabolism of beta2m it is suggested that the rate of beta2m synthesis differs markedly among patients. beta2m it self does not to seem to contribute to the toxic manifestations of chronic renal insufficiency.