[Conductivity of the dialysis bath. Measurement, significance and electrolyte and clinical correlations].

The problem of the conductivity of dialysing solution is discussed. Measurement technique is analysed, highlighting the possibility of error connected with variations in the temperature of the dialysis bath, its mixture, the presence of air bubbles and the presence of dissolved substances that are not electrical charge carriers, and stressing the absolute proportionality with free ions and not with total ions. On the basis of these observations, the lack of any real, reliable correlation between conductivity and electrolytic composition of the dialysing solution unless particular conditions are respected is pointed out. Most important of these are exact knowledge of the composition of the mother solution and the degree of purity of the water. In conclusion, the imprecision of the values given by clinical and technological tradition and widely accepted is pointed out. Such values do not correspond to correct measurement.