The Incidence and Characteristics of Peritonitis in the Fourth Year of a Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis Program

Abstract

This paper reports the frequency and characteristics of peritonitis and exit-tunnel infections in the fourth year of a continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis program. These findings are compared to results obtained in the first two years using bottled solutions and to third-year results using solutions in plastic bags similar to those used in the fourth year. There is a significant progressive decrease in the frequency of peritonitis. The few infections in the fourth year are more likely to be associated with tunnel infections or gastrointestinal disease requiring hospitalization. As simple contaminations decrease, other causes of infection assume greater importance in the remaining episodes.