Does glucose in dialysis fluid protect erythrocytes in patients with chronic renal failure?

BACKGROUND/AIMS: The aim of this study was to assess the multifaceted influence of glucose present in dialyzing fluid on erythrocytes of patients with chronic renal failure (CRF) undergoing regular hemodialysis.

METHODS

A group of 44 subjects with CRF undergoing regular hemodialysis was studied. Two tests were used: osmotic fragility and resistance to the hemolytic agent saponin. The total content of isoprostane 8-iso-prostaglandin F2alpha type III (8-iPF2alpha-III) in plasma and erythrocyte's membrane were determined by the ELISA method.

RESULTS

The presence of glucose in the dialysate is associated with lower intravascular hemolysis markers and high total 8-iPF2alpha-III concentrations in plasma.

CONCLUSION

The presence of glucose in dialyzing fluid could protect erythrocytes. It limits hemolysis in patients with CRF, but, on the other hand, increases the oxidative processes. This kind of treatment along with other therapeutic intervention such as administration of antioxidants (e.g. alpha-tocopherol, ascorbic acid, N-acetylcysteine) could improve the condition of erythrocytes and outcome in CRF.