Artificial surfaces in apheresis devices: interactions with the complement system.

Abstract

Blood contacts with artificial surfaces will effect different degrees of complement activation. Associated with complement activation will be cellular concentration and functional changes. The type of anticoagulant also will effect complement activation. The noted biomodulating effect of a material in contact with blood suggests that the choice and design of materials and their "biocompatibility" can be made to effect humoral and cellular changes as the therapy may require.