Suppressive effect of low molecular weight heparin on plasma MPO egevation during hemodialysis

a comparison with conventional heparin

Abstract

In order to evaluate increased plasma MPO as a consequence of neutrophil degranulation during HD, we established a method of measuring plasma MPO with an enzyme-immunoassay using a monoclonal antibody. Concentrations of plasma MPO rose rapidly at 15min after the start of HD and remained high until the end of HD. Effects of anticoagulants on MPO elevation during HD were investigated. Cross over studies of 8 patients dialysed with standard heparin and low molecular weight (LMW) heparin revealed a suppressive effect of LMW heparin on MPO elevation. The levels of granulocyte elastase were unaffected by the type of anticoagulant used. Our results show that use of LMW heparin as an anticoagulant serves to avoid the excessive granulocyte activation associated with MPO elevation which may lead to HD side effects.