Bilirubin Removal from Albumin - Containing Solution by Adsorption on Polymer Resin

Adsorption equilibrium of bilirubin onto polymeric resins is studied. Solutions containing albumin are used in order to simulate the behavior of systems for removal of albumin-bound substances from blood, serum or dialysis fluids. The effect of albumin pre-loading on the resin is also analysed. Results are explained by a chemically based model that accounts for binding reaction between albumin and bilirubin in the liquid phase. Thermodynamic equilibria and physical models are essential tools for designing adsorption columns aimed at detoxification treatments.