Biocompatibility aspects of chronic hemodialysis and their clinical relevance.

Even if the definition of the term biocompatibility is still not clear, many of its manifestations during hemodialysis are now well documented. Some of their pathophysiological and clinical implications are briefly reviewed. It appears that not only the dialyzer membrane but also the extracorporeal circuit as a whole should be considered. Biological and clinical evidences confirm that the present more biocompatible membranes seem associated with better acute and long-term tolerance of hemodialysis when compared to less biocompatible membranes. However, potential side-effects such as backfiltration or drug interactions should not be overlooked.