The use of medium cut-off (MCO) polyarylethersulfone and polyvinylpyrrolidone blend membrane is an emerging mode in hemodialysis. Recent studies have shown that MCO membranes exhibit a middle high molecular weight uremic toxin clearance superior to standard high flux hemodialysis. We conducted a systematic literature review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials to investigate whether MCO membranes efficiently increase the reduction ratio of middle molecules, and to explore the potential clinical applications of MCO membranes. We selected articles that compared beta 2-microglobulin (β2M), kappa free light chain (κFLC), lambda free light chain (λFLC), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and albumin levels among patients undergoing hemodialysis. Five randomized studies with 328 patients were included. The meta-analysis demonstrated a significantly higher reduction ratio of serum β2M (p < 0.0001), κFLC (p < 0.0001), and λFLC (p = 0.02) in the MCO group. No significant difference was found in serum IL-6 levels after hemodialysis. Albumin loss was observed in the MCO group (p = 0.04). In conclusion, this meta-analysis study demonstrated the MCO membranes’ superior ability to clear β2M, κFLC, and λFLC. Serum albumin loss is an issue and should be monitored. Further studies are expected to identify whether MCO membranes could significantly improve clinical outcomes and overall survival.
Keywords: albumin; artificial kidney; beta 2-microglobulin; dialysis membrane expanded hemodialysis; high retention onset; membrane characterization molecular weight; uremic toxin.