Prognostic Factors of Peritonitis in Patients on Peritoneal Dialysis: a Retrospective Observational Study

Abstract

Background/Objectives. Peritoneal dialysis stands as an established form of renal replacement therapy; yet peritonitis remains a major complication associated with it. This study, analyzing two decades of data from the Nephrology, Dialysis, and Hypertension Division of the University-Hospital IRCCS in Bologna, aimed to identify prognostic factors linked to peritonitis events. It also sought to evaluate the suitability of different peritoneal dialysis techniques, with a focus on Automated Peritoneal Dialysis (APD) and Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD). Additionally, the study assessed the impact of an educational program introduced in 2005 on peritonitis frequency.
Methods. Conducting an observational, retrospective, single-center study, 323 patients were included in the analysis, categorized based on their use of APD or CAPD.
Results. Despite widespread APD usage, no significant correlation was found between the dialysis technique (APD or CAPD) and peritonitis onset. The analysis of the educational program’s impact revealed no significant differences in peritonitis occurrence. However, a clear relationship emerged between regular patient monitoring at the reference center and the duration of peritoneal dialysis.
Conclusions. Despite the absence of a distinct association between peritonitis onset and dialysis technique, regular patient monitoring at the reference center significantly correlated with prolonged peritoneal dialysis duration.

Keywords: end-stage renal disease, peritoneal dialysis, peritonitis, peritoneal catheter

Sorry, this entry is only available in Italian.

Introduction

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is an effective treatment option for patients with end-stage renal disease, particularly for populations such as elderly individuals, diabetics, and those with concomitant pathologies [1, 2]. This technique involves the exchange of solutes and fluids between the patient’s peritoneal capillary blood and the introduced dialysis solution, a process made feasible by the Tenckhoff catheter [3]. This catheter has multiple benefits, including effective fluid exchange, a barrier against infections, and cost-effectiveness [4].

Since 2001, there has been a significant rise in the number of patients opting for dialysis treatments, witnessing an annual growth of approximately seven per cent [5, 6]. This surge can be attributed to an aging population, improved life expectancy for those with end-stage renal disease, and increased access to dialysis for younger patients [7]. The decision between PD and hemodialysis (HD) depends largely on regional and individual circumstances. In developed countries, the choice might be driven by patient preference or accessibility constraints to HD units. In contrast, economic challenges in less affluent regions might render PD as the primary choice [6]. 

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