A multidimensional analysis was used to evaluate, the influence on bone histology of various biochemical and hormonal factors in 20 uraemic patients on chronic haemodialysis or haemofiltration. A positive relationship (p less than 0.1) was found between PTH and osteoclastic and osteoblastic surfaces but not with mineral apposition and bone formation rates. The mineral appositional rate which reflects the cellular activity of osteoblasts was positively related to D metabolites 25(OH)D3 and 1,25(OH)2D3 and to phosphate (p less than 0.1). Mineral appositional rate and bone formation rate were negatively related to bone aluminium (p less than 0.05). These data indicate that: 1) PTH simulates bone turnover but has no direct effect on the bone cellular activity of osteoblasts which is mainly dependent on D metabolites and phosphate; 2) mild aluminium overload not severe enough to cause osteomalacia decreases bone formation in uraemic patients. This study evaluates the role of various simultaneously measured biochemical and hormonal factors on bone histological parameters in uraemic patients.