First-use hypersensitivity reactions during hemodialysis

Abstract

Hypersensitivity reactions during hemodialysis result from the interaction between blood constituents and the hemodialysis membrane. Different types of membrane materials, including cellulose, substituted cellulose, or synthetic noncellulose, are used in dialyzers' manufacture which can affect the frequency and type of reaction seen. Two types of reactions, classified as Type A and Type B, have been described. Type A reaction is far less common but more severe than Type B. The following is a case of Type A reaction in a 63-year-old Caucasian male who had his first hemodialysis prescribed with a synthetic noncellulose membrane. His hemodialysis session was aborted and the reaction was successfully managed. Subsequent dialysis sessions were performed, uneventfully, with a substituted cellulose membrane. This case illustrates the importance of remaining vigilant and cognizant of the possibility of hypersensitivity reactions to hemodialysis membranes, as some of the reactions could be potentially life-threatening.