Faissal TARRASS, Meryem BENJELLOUN
Turkish Journal of Nephrology - 2026;35(2):93-97
Hemodialysis is a life-sustaining therapy for end-stage kidney disease, yet the devices enabling it paradoxically expose patients to chemical toxicants. Through long-term use, compounds such as di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, Bisphenol A (BPA) and its substitute Bisphenol S, N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone, and ethylene oxide leach from dialysis tubing, dialyzers, and other sterilized equipment. These substances, which have documented endocrine-disrupting, carcinogenic, and other toxic properties, pose significant health concerns. This comprehensive review synthesizes current evidence on hemodialysis-specific exposure levels, the toxicological profiles of these compounds, and their associated health impacts. These findings highlight the unique vulnerability of this population, who endure a dual burden of environmental and iatrogenic exposure. Consequently, the critical need for research into mitigation strategies, including alternative dialysis modalities and BPA-free membranes, and the development of safer materials that preserve functionality while minimizing patient risk is underscored.
