Comparative study of C5a plasma levels with different hemodialysis membranes using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Using a specific and sensitive ELISA for C5a, the present study shows that predialysis levels of C5a in end-stage renal disease patients are not elevated and that all membranes studied (Cuprophan, Hemophan, Gambrane and hydrophilic polysulfone) cause significant increases of C5a plasma levels albeit to different degrees. Higher increases of C5a were accompanied by larger decreases of circulating granulocytes and monocytes. Dialyzers with a newly introduced modified regenerated cellulose membrane, Hemophan, showed lower C5a plasma levels during hemodialysis than Cuprophan. With Hemophan C5a plasma levels were comparable to those with polysulfone membranes.