Importance of endotoxins in high-flux dialysis.

Endotoxins are not only important for inducing pyrogenic reactions during haemodialysis but also for the stimulation of different blood cells. This is followed by the release of interleukin-1 and other powerful biological active substances, resulting in a broad spectrum of biological activities. Permeation of LPS (endotoxins) through dialysis and haemofiltration membranes is of great importance. Using a quantitative turbidimetric method based on the LAL (limulus amoebocyte lysate) test LPS concentrations were measured in a closed in vitro system for 11 different dialysers and haemofilters. To assess the passage of endotoxin through the membrane, permeation was measured from the dialysate to the blood side as well as from the blood compartment to the dialysate side.