Glucose Absorption from the Dialysis Fluid During Peritoneal Dialysis

Abstract

Glucose absorption from the peritoneal dialysis fluid was studied in 13 patients with severe renal failure. The dialyses were performed throughout using a dialysate glucose concentration of either 15 g/l or 42.5 g/l. Dialysate turnover rate was changed by varying the equilibration time. With each dialysate glucose concentration there was a relation between the rate of glucose absorption and the turnover rate of dialysate. At a turnover rate of 21 g/hour and using a dialysate concentration of 15 g/l, the rate of glucose absorption was 9.5 g/hour; using a dialysate concentration of 42.5 g/l the rate was 38 g/hour. To optimize glucose absorption the dialysis should be carried out with a high turnover rate and with a high dialysate glucose concentration. Under these circumstances the risk of dehydration and glucose intolerance should be considered.