[Ascites as a complication of hepatic storage of hydroxyethyl starch in long-term dialysis].

Three adult dialysis patients developed ascites after having received repeatedly the plasma substitute hydroxyethyl starch (HES 40/0.5). In two cases (total dose 180, and 330 g HES, respectively) the ascites was reversible after discontinuation of the HES administration. In the third case (total dose 915 g HES) the ascites could be controlled only by implantation of a Denver shunt. In this latter case it was shown by histological, electron microscopical, and biochemical findings that the ascites was caused by hepatic sinusoidal obstruction due to an extreme storage of HES in the sinusoidal lining cells. Additional storage was detected in hepatocytes, bile duct epithelia, endothelial cells, and fibroblasts in the portal tracts. Biochemically HES was found in liver tissue at a concentration of 4% (w/w). Although in renal impairment plasma clearance of HES is not significantly different from normal individuals, long-term administration of HES must be regarded inadvisable because of tissue storage which apparently is especially significant in this condition.