What can cause crenation of red blood cells during dialysis?

Crenation of red blood cells occurs when they lose water and become shriveled or distorted. This situation is typically due to a hypertonic environment, where the solute concentration outside the cells is greater than inside. When a high sodium concentration is present in the dialysis solution or the surrounding blood plasma, it causes water to move out of the red blood cells through osmosis, leading to the process of crenation.

In the context of dialysis, the sodium concentration can significantly influence the osmotic balance between the dialysis fluid and the blood. If the sodium concentration in the dialysis solution is higher than that in the patient’s bloodstream, it can result in the movement of water from within the red blood cells into the surrounding fluid, causing the cells to shrink (crenate).

Understanding the role of sodium in osmotic balance is crucial for managing patient care effectively during dialysis. Keeping a close watch on sodium levels helps prevent complications associated with crenation, ensuring that the cells maintain their normal, biconcave shape and functionality.