[The role of the complement system in the origin of respiratory insufficiency in patients on hemodialysis].

A study was made of changes in functional status of complementary system in 42 patients with chronic renal failure on programmed hemodialysis. Early stages of hemodialysis were accompanied by short-term and reversible activation of complementary system. 100 sessions were followed by complement depression. Complement system was found to be involved in two pathogenetic mechanisms of respiratory insufficiency: block of pulmonary microcirculation by leukocytic aggregates and DIC syndrome associated with microthrombosis of the lesser circulation vessels. To manage the above complications, plasmapheresis is advocated.