Activation of the complement system at the interface between blood and artificial surfaces.

The interaction between blood and the artificial devices used in haemodialysis results in the activation of the immune system. Complement activation is known to play a key role in the production of inflammatory mediators. This article describes the complement system and the way in which it is triggered in the patient undergoing haemodialysis. It highlights those factors thought to be of particular importance in the pathogenesis of adverse reactions and targets them as obstacles to be overcome in the future design of biocompatible materials.