The need and use of a phosphate-enriched dialysate during regular hemodialysis

A disabling osteomalacic syndrome seen only during regular hemodialysis is described. Its features include skeletal fractures, pain, suppression of pre-existing hyperparathyroidism, and failure to improve with any of the vitamin-D metabolites. Phosphate depletion may be an important etiological factor but this could not explain all cases. A trial with phosphate-enriched dialysate and 1alphaOHD3 resulted in sustained clinical improvement in 54% of the patients and healing of fractures in 33%. Other etiological factors independent of 1,25(OH)2D3 deficiency and phosphate depletion must be considered. Current, indirect evidence suggests that accumulation of water toxins including aluminium may be important.