What do you call the fluid that passes through a semipermeable membrane during dialysis?

The fluid that passes through a semipermeable membrane during dialysis is known as dialysate. In the context of dialysis, dialysate serves as a cleansing solution that facilitates the removal of waste products, excess fluids, and toxins from the blood when the kidneys are unable to perform these functions effectively.

During the dialysis process, blood is drawn from the body and filtered using a dialyzer, which contains the semipermeable membrane. As the blood flows on one side, the dialysate, which is a carefully balanced solution of electrolytes and other substances, flows on the opposite side of the membrane. The semipermeable nature of the membrane allows for diffusion. This means that harmful substances and excess electrolytes from the blood can pass into the dialysate, while essential components like proteins and blood cells are retained in the blood.

Understanding the role of dialysate is crucial for comprehending how dialysis treatments work to maintain the balance of chemicals in the body and help patients with renal failure.