The association between exit site infection and subsequent peritonitis among peritoneal dialysis patients

Efficacy of sucrose and povidone-iodine mixtures in peritoneal dialysis catheter exit-site care

BACKGROUND

Exit-site infection (ESI) is a common recurring complication in patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis (PD). Sucrose and povidone-iodine (SPI) mixtures, antimicrobial ointments that promote wound healing, have been used for the treatment of ulcers and burns, but their efficacy in exit-site care is still unclear.

METHODS

This single-center retrospective observational study included patients who underwent PD between May 2010 and June 2022 and presented with episodes of ESI. Patients were divided into SPI and non-SPI groups and followed up from initial ESI onset until PD cessation, death, transfer to another facility, or June 2023.

RESULTS

Among the 82 patients (mean age 62, [54-72] years), 23 were treated with SPI. The median follow-up duration was 39 months (range, 14-64), with an overall ESI incidence of 0.70 episodes per patient-year. Additionally, 43.1% of second and 25.6% of third ESI were caused by the same pathogen as the first. The log-rank test demonstrated significantly better second and third ESI-free survival in the SPI group than that in the non-SPI group (p < 0.01 and p < 0.01, respectively). In a Cox regression analysis, adjusting for potential confounders, SPI use was a significant predictor of decreased second and third ESI episodes (hazard ratio [HR], 0.22; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.10-0.52 and HR, 0.22; 95%CI, 0.07-0.73, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results showed that the use of SPI may be a promising option for preventing the incidence of ESI in patients with PD.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This study was approved by the Keio University School of Medicine Ethics Committee (approval number 20231078) on August 28, 2023. Retrospectively registered.

A Rare Case of Peritoneal Dialysis-Associated Peritonitis Caused by Neisseria sicca

Peritonitis is a critical complication in peritoneal dialysis, often leading to peritoneal dialysis (PD) treatment failure. We present a rare case of Neisseria sicca (NS)-related peritonitis in a 47-year-old male with multiple comorbidities. Despite NS's infrequent association with infections, prompt diagnosis and antibiotic therapy based on International Society for Peritoneal Dialysis (ISPD) guidelines led to a favorable outcome. This case emphasizes identifying uncommon pathogens in immunocompromised individuals and highlights the importance of prompt treatment to prevent morbidity.

Tunnel ultrasound can guide the use of peritoneal dialysis catheter exit site relocation by external splicing and cuff removal in refractory tunnel infection

BACKGROUND

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) catheter related infections continue to be a major cause of morbidity and transfer to hemodialysis (HD) in PD patients. The treatment of tunnel infection (TI) could be challenging, especially when the infection involves the superficial cuff requiring the removal of the catheter. To spare the patient the loss of the catheter and the transfer to HD, several mini-invasive surgical techniques have been proposed as rescue therapy. Furthermore, nowadays, the rapid growth of digital technology has enormously increased the diagnostic sensibility of the echo signal allowing to accurately defines the extent of the infectious process along the PD catheter tunnel.

METHODS

Between 1st January 2020 and 31st December 2021 seven patients who underwent exit-site relocation by external splicing and cuff removal at our institution due to refractory TI were included in the study. All patients were followed until 12 months after the procedure. As soon as TI was defined refractory to the medical therapy, an ultrasonographic examination of the catheter tunnel was performed to define the extent of the infectious episode.

RESULTS

Among the 7 infectious episodes, 4 were caused by P. aeruginosa, and 3 by S. aureus. Around the superficial cuff the hypo/anechoic collections detected by ultrasounds showed a mean diameter of 3.05 ± 0.79 mm. The exit-site relocation by external splicing and cuff removal was successful in all cases (7/7, 100%).

CONCLUSIONS

In our experience the use of exit site relocation by external splicing and cuff removal as rescue therapy for TI with positive ultrasounds for TI limited to superficial cuff involvement and without secondary peritonitis, yielded to promising results with a success rate of 100%. This preliminary experience underlines the paramount usefulness of tunnel echography in accurately defining the extent of TI and, consequently, guiding the choice of the therapeutical approach in refractory TI.

A population-based study on the incidence and aetiology of infectious complications in peritoneal dialysis in South Sweden

BACKGROUND

Peritonitis is a major cause of morbidity in peritoneal dialysis (PD) and an independent risk factor for elevated all-cause mortality. The aims of this study were to report the incidence, trend, aetiology, and antimicrobial susceptibility of PD-associated peritonitis and catheter-related infections in South Sweden between 2011-2020.

METHODS

This population-based observational cohort study included all patients with PD between the years 2011-2020 in the county of Skåne. Data was accessed through the Swedish Renal Registry and the Department of Clinical Microbiology in Lund. Definitions issued by the International Society for Peritoneal Dialysis were implemented to assess PD-associated infections.

RESULTS

Medical records of 675 paediatric and adult PD patients were eligible for inclusion. Of those, 208 (31%) were female and the median age was 67 years (range 0-91). The overall rate of PD-peritonitis was 0.38 episodes per year at risk. Out of 484 episodes of peritonitis, 61% (n = 295) were caused by Gram-positive bacteria. There were 289 occurrences of exit site infections, of which most (n = 152, 53%) were Gram-positive. Tunnel infections occurred in 16 episodes and were caused by S. aureus or P. aeruginosa. Among all isolates, 37 were of MRSE, four of ESBL-producing E. coli, and one of MRSA.

CONCLUSION

The crude rate of PD-peritonitis was stable during the study period. Gram-positive bacteria dominated the microbial aetiology, and antibiotic resistance was limited. It is important to monitor the aetiology, incidence, and resistance rates in PD-associated infections, to base empirical antibiotic regimens and facilitate prevention.

Educational interventions and identification of risk factors to prevent and reduce peritonitis in peritoneal dialysis: A scoping review

BACKGROUND

Peritonitis is a common and serious complication of peritoneal dialysis and is one of the main causes of peritoneal dialysis technique failure and long-term hemodialysis conversion.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the review was to identify and clarify peritonitis risk factors and learn about strategies employed at international level to prevent and reduce the occurrence of peritoneal dialysis associated infections and their complications.

DESIGN

A scoping review.

PARTICIPANTS

Adults in pertitoneal dialysis.

MEASUREMENTS

The methodology framework of Arksey and O'Malley and PRISMA for Scoping Reviews guidelines were applied. A search was conducted of PubMed, Scopus and CINAHL using terms to identify peritoneal dialysis -associated risk factors and interventions carried out for the prevention and reduction of peritonitis in adult persons living at home.

RESULTS

The 17 studies selected were based on work carried out in nine different countries. Eleven articles analysed modifiable risk factors (low educational level, being a foreigner and low adherence to aseptic technique) and non-modifiable risk factors (age and comorbidities) that predispose to peritonitis in peritoneal dialysis. The other six studies applied an intervention to improve the prevalence of peritonitis considering educational practices adapted to patient characteristics and the application of retraining.

CONCLUSIONS

Personalised patient training and the identification of risk factors for peritonitis are key to reducing complications and enhancing the survival of peritoneal dialysis patients and the effectiveness of the technique.

Topical antibiotics prophylaxis for infections of indwelling pleural/peritoneal catheters (TAP-IPC): A pilot study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Indwelling pleural catheter (IPC) and indwelling peritoneal catheter (IPeC) have established roles in the management of malignant pleural and peritoneal effusions but catheter-related infections remain a major concern. Topical mupirocin prophylaxis has been shown to reduce peritoneal dialysis catheter infections. This study aimed to assess the (i) compatibility of IPC with mupirocin and (ii) feasibility, tolerability and compliance of topical mupirocin prophylaxis in patients with an IPC or IPeC.

METHODS

(i) Three preparations of mupirocin were applied onto segments of IPC thrice weekly and examined with scanning electron microscope (SEM) at different time intervals. (ii) Consecutive patients fitted with IPC or IPeC were given topical mupirocin prophylaxis to apply to the catheter exit-site following every drainage/dressing change (at least twice weekly) and followed up for 6 months.

RESULTS

(i) No detectable structural catheter damage was found with mupirocin applied for up to 6 months. (ii) Fifty indwelling catheters were inserted in 48 patients for malignant pleural (n = 41) and peritoneal (n = 9) effusions. Median follow-up was 121 [median, IQR 19-181] days. All patients tolerated mupirocin well; one patient reported short-term local tenderness. Compliance was excellent with 95.8% of the 989 scheduled doses delivered. Six patients developed catheter-related pleural (n = 3), concurrent peritoneal/local (n = 1) and skin/tract (n = 2) infections from Streptococcus mitis (with Bacillus species or anaerobes), Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

CONCLUSION

This first study of long-term prevention of IPC- or IPeC-related infections found topical mupirocin prophylaxis feasible and well tolerated. Its efficacy warrants future randomized studies.

Utility of ultrasonographic examination in catheter-related infections in peritoneal dialysis: a clinical approach

Peritoneal dialysis- (PD) related infections continue to be a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients on renal replacement therapy via PD. However, despite the great efforts in the prevention of PD-related infectious episodes, approximately one third of technical failures are still caused by peritonitis. Recent studies support the theory that ascribes to exit-site and tunnel infections a direct role in causing peritonitis. Hence, prompt exit site infection/tunnel infection diagnosis would allow the timely start of the most appropriate treatment, thereby decreasing the potential complications and enhancing technique survival. Ultrasound examination is a simple, rapid, non-invasive and widely available procedure for tunnel evaluation in PD catheter-related infections. In case of an exit site infection, ultrasound examination has greater sensitivity in diagnosing simultaneous tunnel infection compared to the physical exam alone. This allows distinguishing the exit site infection, which will likely respond to antibiotic therapy, from infections that are likely to be refractory to medical therapy. In case of a tunnel infection, the ultrasound allows localizing the catheter portion involved in the infectious process, thus providing significant prognostic information. In addition, ultrasound performed after two weeks of antibiotic administration allows monitoring patient response to therapy. However, there is no evidence of the usefulness of ultrasound examination as a screening tool for the early diagnosis of tunnel infections in asymptomatic PD patients.

The use of mini-invasive surgical techniques to treat refractory exit-site and tunnel infections in peritoneal dialysis patients: a clinical approach

Peritoneal dialysis-(PD) related infections continue to be a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients on PD. Although great advances have been made in the prevention and treatment of infectious complications over the past two decades, catheter-related infections represent a significant cause of technical failure in PD. Recent studies support the role of exit-site/tunnel infections in causing peritonitis. Peritonitis secondary to tunnel infection led to catheter loss in most cases. Thus, removing the catheter when exit-site/tunnel infection is refractory to medical therapy has been recommended. This approach requires interrupting PD and, after the placement of a central venous catheter, and transferring the patient to haemodialysis. In order to continue PD, simultaneous catheter removal and replacement of the PD catheter has been suggested. Although simultaneous catheter removal and replacement avoids temporary haemodialysis, it implies the removal/reinsertion of the catheter and the immediate initiation of PD with the risk of mechanical complications, such as leakage and malfunction. Hence, several mini-invasive surgical techniques, such as curettage, cuff-shaving, removal of the superficial cuff, and partial reimplantation of the catheter, have been proposed as rescue treatments. These procedures may allow the rescue of the catheter with a success rate of 70-100%. Therefore, in case of refractory exit-site/tunnel infection, a mini-invasive surgical revision should be considered before removing the catheter.

Mixed infection of three nontuberculous mycobacteria species identified by metagenomic next-generation sequencing in a patient with peritoneal dialysis-associated peritonitis: a rare case report and literature review

BACKGROUND

Peritonitis caused by nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) is an infrequent but important complication in patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis (PD). There has been no report of mixed infections with multiple NTM. Peritoneal dialysis-associated peritonitis (PDAP) caused by Mycobacterium abscessus is more common than that caused by M. smegmatis and M. goodii.

CASE PRESENTATION

This case concerns a patient with PDAP caused by gram-positive bacilli, which could not be identified at the species level in successive detections of initial peritoneal effluent. Later, M. smegmatis was detected with no sensitivity results in bacterial culture. However, metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) and first whole-genome sequences indicated that there were three species coexisting in the culture, including M. smegmatis (24,708 reads), M. abscessus (9224 reads), and M. goodii (8305 reads). This is the first case of PDAP with specific evidence that conventional detection methods isolated a poorly pathogenic NTM, whereas mNGS and first whole-genome sequences identified multiple NTM. Pathogenic bacteria might not be detected using conventional methods due to their lower abundance. This case report is the first description of mixed infections with more than two species of NTM during PDAP.

CONCLUSIONS

PDAP caused by multiple NTM is rare, and the diagnosis is difficult. When NTM are isolated by conventional tests in patients who are suspected of infection, clinicians should be vigilant, and further tests should be performed to determine the presence of rare or even previously unknown bacteria, for which the quantity is relatively low, but the pathogenicity is high. The rare pathogen may be a primary agent in causing such complications.

Continuous antimicrobial mechanism of dispersible hydroxyapatite nanoparticles doped with zinc ions for percutaneous device coatings

Percutaneous devices-indwelling catheters-related infections are serious clinical incidents. It is accordingly necessary to develop anti-infective coating materials suitable for the devices for long-term effectiveness. In our research group, highly dispersible and crystalline hydroxyapatite (HAp) nanoparticles doped with metallic or halogen ions possessing antibacterial activities have been developed. In this study, antibacterial, dispersible, and crystalline zinc (Zn)-doped hydroxyapatite [Zn(15)-HAp] nanoparticles substituted with 13.5% Zn content [Zn/(Zn + Ca) × 100] were prepared by a wet chemical method using an anti-sintering agent through calcination. Antibacterial activities of Zn(15)-HAp nanoparticles were evaluated using Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus. The survival rates of the bacteria on Zn(15)-HAp nanoparticles were significantly lower than that on normal HAp (nHAp) coated surfaces, while no influences were observed on proliferation of L929 cells. Even after soaking Zn(15)-HAp nanoparticles in PBS for 2 weeks, the antibacterial activities against E. coli were maintained at a similar level to a 20 min soaking. The bacterial death was related to not only ion-exchange phenomenon between Zn and magnesium ions but also accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the cells. Allergic-like reactions-anaphylactoid reactions-might not readily occur with Zn(15)-HAp nanoparticles because the amounts of histamine released from HMC-1 cells co-cultured with nanoparticles were not significantly different to that of nHAp, but were statistically much lower than that of chlorhexidine.

Feasibility of a break-in period of less than 24 hours for urgent start peritoneal dialysis: a multicenter study

Purpose

Urgent start peritoneal dialysis (USPD) is an effective therapeutic method for end-stage renal disease (ESRD). However, whether it is safe to initiate peritoneal dialysis (PD) within 24 h unclear. We examined the short-term outcomes of a break-in period (BI) of 24 h for patients undergoing USPD.

Methods

This real-world, multicenter, retrospective cohort study evaluated USPD patients from five centers from January 2013 to August 2020. Patients were divided into BI ≤ 24 h or BI > 24 h groups. The Primary outcomes included incidence of mechanical and infectious complications. The secondary outcome was technique failure. Moreover, we presented a subgroup analysis for patients who did not receive temporary hemodialysis (HD).

Results

A total of 871 USPD patients were included: 470 in the BI ≤ 24 h and 401 in the BI > 24 h groups. Mechanical and infectious complications did not differ between the two groups across the follow-up timepoints (2 weeks, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months) (p > 0.05). Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that BI ≤ 24 h was not an independent risk factor for mechanical complications, catheter migration, or infectious complications (p > 0.05). A BI ≤ 24 h was not an independent significant risk factor for technique failure by multivariate Cox regression analysis (p > 0.05). The subgroup analysis of patients who did not receive temporary HD returned the same results.

Conclusion

Initiating PD within 24 h of catheter insertion was not associated with increased mechanical complications, infectious complications, or technique failures.

ISPD peritonitis guideline recommendations: 2022 update on prevention and treatment

Peritoneal dialysis (PD)-associated peritonitis is a serious complication of PD and prevention and treatment of such is important in reducing patient morbidity and mortality. The ISPD 2022 updated recommendations have revised and clarified definitions for refractory peritonitis, relapsing peritonitis, peritonitis-associated catheter removal, PD-associated haemodialysis transfer, peritonitis-associated death and peritonitis-associated hospitalisation. New peritonitis categories and outcomes including pre-PD peritonitis, enteric peritonitis, catheter-related peritonitis and medical cure are defined. The new targets recommended for overall peritonitis rate should be no more than 0.40 episodes per year at risk and the percentage of patients free of peritonitis per unit time should be targeted at >80% per year. Revised recommendations regarding management of contamination of PD systems, antibiotic prophylaxis for invasive procedures and PD training and reassessment are included. New recommendations regarding management of modifiable peritonitis risk factors like domestic pets, hypokalaemia and histamine-2 receptor antagonists are highlighted. Updated recommendations regarding empirical antibiotic selection and dosage of antibiotics and also treatment of peritonitis due to specific microorganisms are made with new recommendation regarding adjunctive oral N-acetylcysteine therapy for mitigating aminoglycoside ototoxicity. Areas for future research in prevention and treatment of PD-related peritonitis are suggested.

Associations, microbiology and outcomes of pre-training peritoneal dialysis-related peritonitis

BACKGROUND

Pre-training peritonitis (PTP), defined as peritonitis that occurred after catheter insertion and before peritoneal dialysis (PD) training, is increasingly recognized as a risk factor for adverse patient outcomes, yet poorly understood with limited studies conducted to date. This study was conducted to identify the associations, microbiologic profiles and outcomes of PTP compared to post-training peritonitis.

METHODS

This single-centre, case-control study involved patients with kidney failure who had PD as their first kidney replacement therapy and had experienced an episode of PD peritonitis between 1 January 2005 and 31 December 2015. Individuals experiencing their first episode of peritonitis were included in the study and categorized according to whether it occurred pre- or post-training. The primary outcome was peritonitis cure rates and composite outcome of hemodialysis (HD) transfer for ≥30 days or death. The secondary outcomes included catheter removal and refractory peritonitis rates.

RESULTS

Among 683 patients who received PD for the first time, 121 (17.7%) had PTP while 265 (38.8%) had post-training peritonitis. PTP patients were more likely to have had exit-site infection (ESI) prior to peritonitis (24.8% compared to 17% in the post-training peritonitis group, p = 0.2). Culture-negative peritonitis was significantly more common in the PTP patients (53.7%) than in the post-training group (27.3%, p < 0.001). The cure was achieved in 68.9% of cases and was not significantly different between the PTP and post-training peritonitis groups (66.1% vs. 70.2%; OR 0.83, 95% CI 0.51-1.35). Lower odds of cure were associated with peritonitis caused by moderate and high severity organisms (OR 0.49, 95% CI 0.29-0.85; OR 0.18, 95% CI 0.08-0.43, respectively). Composite outcome of HD transfer or death was more commonly observed among patients with PTP (87.5% vs. 75.8%; OR 2.2, 95% CI 1.20-4.48) in whom significantly shorter median time to HD transfer was observed (PTP 10.7 months vs. post-training peritonitis 21.9 months, p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

PTP is a common condition that is highly associated with preceding ESI, is frequently culture-negative and is associated with worse composite outcome of HD transfer or death. PTP rates should be routinely monitored and reported by PD units for continuous quality improvement.

Effects of cognitive impairment and assisted peritoneal dialysis on exit-site infection in older patients

BACKGROUND

Elderly peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients required assistance for a variety of PD-related tasks. The usefulness of assisted PD in reducing the peritonitis risk has been reported; however, there is little evidence on the effectiveness of assisted PD in preventing exit-site infections in older patients.

METHODS

This was a single-center, prospective cohort study. Thirty-three patients (mean age: 74.8 ± 5.9 years) on PD were evaluated for cognitive impairment (CI) using the Japanese version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment. They were also evaluated to determine whether they performed the exit-site care procedure alone or with assistance. Patients were categorized into four groups based on the presence or absence of CI and the presence or absence of exit-site care assistance. They were followed up until the occurrence of peritonitis and exit-site infection at the end of the follow-up.

RESULTS

Altogether, 8, 8, and 17 patients were assigned to the "without CI and without assistance", "without CI and with assistance", and "with CI and with assistance groups", respectively; no patients were assigned to the "with CI and without assistance group". Six and 16 patients experienced peritonitis and exit-site infection during follow-up, respectively. Kaplan-Meier analysis and log-rank tests revealed that the "without CI and without assistance group" was significantly associated with exit-site infection (log-rank < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Patients who did not receive assistance for exit-site care were at a higher risk of exit-site infections, even in the absence of CI. Caregiver assistance is important for preventing exit-site infections in older patients on PD.

Self-assessment sheet submission rate predicts technique survival in patients initiating peritoneal dialysis

AIM

Patients play a crucial role in preventing peritoneal dialysis (PD)-related events, including peritonitis and fluid overload, as PD procedures are mainly carried out at home. We asked patients to submit a PD self-assessment sheet at each outpatient visit in our daily clinical practice and evaluated its usefulness for outcomes in patients initiating PD.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included patients who underwent PD catheter insertion between January 2008 and October 2018. The submission rate of a PD self-assessment sheet was calculated from medical records until PD cessation or study completion (October 2020). The association between the submission rate and technique survival was analysed.

RESULTS

Among the 105 recruited patients (78 men, 60.4 ± 12.2 years), 44 discontinued PD and transferred to haemodialysis during the study period. The follow-up was 52.3 (28.7-79.3) months, and the median submission rate was 78%. The log-rank test showed that technique survival was significantly better in patients with a submission rate ≥ 78% than those with a submission rate < 78% (P = 0.006). The submission rate remained significantly associated with less technique failure (hazard ratio 0.88 per 10%, P = 0.002) by the Cox regression analysis adjusted for age, sex, Charlson comorbidity index, estimated glomerular filtration rate and geriatric nutritional risk index.

CONCLUSION

The submission rate of a PD self-assessment sheet is useful as a predictor of technique survival in patients initiating PD. Instruction that increases submission may improve technique survival in PD patients. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Gut microbial metabolite TMAO increases peritoneal inflammation and peritonitis risk in peritoneal dialysis patients

Trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO), a gut microbiota-produced metabolite, is accumulated in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. It is well known to contribute to CKD-related cardiovascular complications. However, the effect of TMAO on peritoneal dialysis (PD)-related peritonitis remains largely unknown. Here, we demonstrate that serum concentrations of TMAO were positively correlated with C-reactive protein levels, and the appearance rate of dialysate IL-6 and PAI-1, in PD patients. During the follow-up period of 28.3 ± 8.0 months, patients with higher TMAO levels (≥50 μM) had a higher risk of new-onset peritonitis (HR, 3.60; 95%CI, 1.18-10.99; P=0.025) after adjusting for sex, age, diabetes, PD duration, BUN, rGFR, C-reactive protein, BMI and β2-M. In CKD rat models, TMAO significantly promoted peritoneal dialysate-induced inflammatory cell infiltration, inflammatory cytokines production in the peritoneum. In vitro study revealed that TMAO directly induced primary peritoneal mesothelial cell necrosis, together with increased production of pro-inflammatory cytokines including CCL2, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β. In addition, TMAO significantly increased TNF-α-induced P-selectin production in mesothelial cells, as well as high glucose-induced TNF-α and CCL2 expression in endothelial cells. In conclusion, our data demonstrate that higher levels of TMAO exacerbate peritoneal inflammation and might be a risk factor of incidence of peritonitis in PD patients.

Negative-pressure wound therapy is effective for peritoneal dialysis catheter exit-site management in the early postoperative period

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) catheter exit-site care is critically important for the prevention of catheter-related infections (CRIs) and subsequent peritonitis. The postoperative management of the site is particularly essential because it has an open wound that is always adjacent to a PD catheter tube. This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of negative-pressure wound therapy (NPWT) for postoperative PD catheter exit sites. Thirty patients with end-stage renal disease who underwent simultaneous PD catheter insertion and exit-site formation were randomly assigned to receive NPWT (NPWT group) or conventional dressing (non-NPWT group) for the first seven postoperative days. The exit-site scores on the seventh postoperative day was lower in the NPWT group than in the non-NPWT group (p = 0.0049). Analysis of variance F statistic for the effect of NPWT over 180 days was highly significant (11.482595, p = 0.007). There were no statistically significant differences between the time to first CRI and PD-related peritonitis between the two groups. There was one case of CRI with relapsing peritonitis and catheter loss in the non-NPWT group. These findings demonstrate the association between NPWT and low exit-site score. NPWT can be recommended for the management of PD catheter exit sites in the early postoperative period.

The effect of radiological imaging on treatment delay and hospitalisation in patients with peritoneal dialysis-related peritonitis: A secondary analysis of the PROMPT study

BACKGROUND

In peritoneal dialysis-related peritonitis (peritonitis), delayed antibiotic therapy is associated with adverse outcomes. Identifying barriers to timely treatment may improve outcomes.

AIM

To determine the impact of radiological investigations on treatment delay and predictors of hospitalisation and length of stay (LOS).

METHODS

Retrospective review of patients with presumed peritonitis in Western Australia.

RESULTS

In 153 episodes of peritonitis, 79 (51.6%) resulted in admission with a median LOS of 3 days (Q1, Q3: 1, 6). In a multivariable model, significant predictors of admission were abnormal exit-site (odds ration (OR) 5.7; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.4, 23.6; p = 0.02), failure to detect a cloudy bag (OR 11.9; 95%CI: 3.2, 44.7; p < 0.001), female sex (OR 3.3; 95% CI: 1.4, 9.7; p = 0.027), radiological imaging within 24 h (OR 8.8; 95% CI: 2.2, 34.8; p = 0.002) and contact with ambulant care facility (OR 0.32, 95% CI: 0.11, 0.98; p = 0.04). Imaging within 24 h of presentation occurred in 41 (27%) episodes of peritonitis, mostly plain X-rays (91%), of which 83% were clinically irrelevant. Imaging performed within 24 h of presentation increased the median time to antibiotic treatment (2.9 h (Q1, Q3: 1.6, 6.4) vs 2.0 h (Q1, Q3: 1, 3.8; p = 0.046)). Imaging performed prior to administering antibiotics significantly increased the median time to treatment (4.7 h (Q1, Q3: 2.9, 25) vs 1.5 h (Q1, Q3: 0.75, 2.5; p < 0.001)) in those where imaging followed antibiotic treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Half of all presentations with peritonitis result in hospital admission. Radiological imaging was associated with an increased risk of hospitalisation, potentially contributes to treatment delay, and was mostly clinically unnecessary. When required, imaging should follow antibiotic therapy.

Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis Peritonitis Guidelines - Consensus Statement of Peritoneal Dialysis Society of India - 2020

Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) related peritonitis is a major cause of technique failure, morbidity, and mortality in patients on CAPD. Its prevention and management is key to success of CAPD program. Due to variability in practice, microbiological trends and sensitivity towards antibiotics, there is a need for customized guidelines for management of CAPD related peritonitis (CAPDRP) in India. With this need, Peritoneal Dialysis Society of India (PDSI) organized a structured meeting to discuss various aspects of management of CAPDRP and formulated a consensus agreement which will help in management of patients with CAPDRP.

Smoking is a Risk Factor for Endogenous Peritonitis in Patients Undergoing Peritoneal Dialysis

BACKGROUND

Peritonitis is one of the most common complications in patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis, (PD) but it is difficult to predict or prevent. In this study, we analyzed the risk of endogenous peritonitis in patients receiving PD.

METHODS

We included all patients who underwent PD at our hospital from April 2015 to March 2020. There were 22 cases of peritonitis, including 18 cases of endogenous peritonitis without evidence of exit-site infection or technical failure. We evaluated older age, female sex, obesity, diabetes, diverticulosis, and constipation as potential important risk factors for endogenous peritonitis and included these as confounding factors, along with a current or previous history of smoking, in univariate logistic regression models.

RESULTS

A previous or current history of smoking (p = 0.0065) was the most significant risk factor for endogenous peritonitis in the univariate logistic regression model. In addition, smoking was the most significant independent risk factor for endogenous peritonitis (p = 0.0034) in multivariate logistic regression models. Diabetes was also significant in univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Smoking is a significant independent risk factor for endogenous peritonitis in patients undergoing PD. Cessation of smoking may lower the risk of endogenous peritonitis in this patient group.

A novel bis(pyrazolyl)methane compound as a potential agent against Gram-positive bacteria

This study was designed to propose alternative therapeutic compounds to fight against bacterial pathogens. Thus, a library of nitrogen-based compounds bis(triazolyl)methane (1T–7T) and bis(pyrazolyl)methane (1P–11P) was synthesised following previously reported methodologies and their antibacterial activity was tested using the collection strains of Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Moreover, the novel compound 2P was fully characterized by IR, UV–Vis and NMR spectroscopy. To evaluate antibacterial activity, minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs), minimal bactericidal concentrations (MBCs), minimum biofilm inhibitory concentrations (MBICs), and minimum biofilm eradication concentrations (MBECs) assays were carried out at different concentrations (2–2000 µg/mL). The MTT assay and Resazurin viability assays were performed in both human liver carcinoma HepG2 and human colorectal adenocarcinoma Caco-2 cell lines at 48 h. Of all the synthesised compounds, 2P had an inhibitory effect on Gram-positive strains, especially against S. aureus. The MIC and MBC of 2P were 62.5 and 2000 µg/mL against S. aureus, and 250 and 2000 µg/mL against E. faecalis, respectively. However, these values were > 2000 µg/mL against E. coli and P. aeruginosa. In addition, the MBICs and MBECs of 2P against S. aureus were 125 and > 2000 µg/mL, respectively, whereas these values were > 2000 µg/mL against E. faecalis, E. coli, and P. aeruginosa. On the other hand, concentrations up to 250 µg/mL of 2P were non-toxic doses for eukaryotic cell cultures. Thus, according to the obtained results, the 2P nitrogen-based compound showed a promising anti-Gram-positive effect (especially against S. aureus) both on planktonic state and biofilm, at non-toxic concentrations.

Repeat exit site infection in peritoneal dialysis patient with polycythemia vera - a case report

BACKGROUND

Infectious complications of peritoneal dialysis (PD) remain a common cause of catheter loss and discontinuation of PD. Exit site infection (ESI) constitutes a significant risk factor for PD-related peritonitis and determination of predisposing states is relevant. We here present a case of repeat ESI due to Pseudomonas aeruginosa in a PD patient with skin changes in the course of polycythemia vera (PV).

CASE PRESENTATION

A 73-year-old PD patient with chronic kidney disease secondary to renal amyloidosis and ankylosing spondylitis, presented to the nephrology unit with signs of ESI. In 2006 he was diagnosed with PV and since then has was successfully treated with hydroxyurea; however, he reported recurrent episodes of developing skin nodules in the course of the disease. Exit site swab yielded Pseudomonas aeruginosa and the infection developed in the ulcerated PV nodule that appeared in exit site 2 weeks earlier. Patient was treated with intraperitoneal amikacin and oral ciprofloxacin, however, due to neurological complications, the treatment had to be interrupted and finally catheter was removed. Similar episode of ESI with Pseudomonas aeruginosa developed in the patient two years earlier and also required catheter removal.

CONCLUSION

This is the first case report demonstrating the development of ESI on the polycythemia vera skin lesion in this area. Skin manifestations of PV might be a predisposing factor to ESI in PD patients.

Establishment of a prediction model for early and mid-term complications for patients undergoing catheter insertion for peritoneal dialysis

Objective

To investigate the factors involved in early and mid-term complications after catheter insertion for peritoneal dialysis and to establish prediction models.

Methods

A total of 158 patients with peritoneal dialysis in the Department of Nephrology of our hospital were retrospectively analyzed. General information, laboratory indices, early complications (within 1 month after the operation), mid-term complications (1–6 months after the operation), and other relevant data were recorded. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to establish a prediction model of complications and generate a nomogram. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to evaluate the efficacy of the model.

Results

Among the patients, 48 (30.8%) had early complications, which were mainly catheter-related complications, and 29 (18.4%) had mid-term complications, which were mainly abdominal infection and catheter migration. We constructed a prediction model for early complications (area under the curve = 0.697, 95% confidence interval: 0.609–0.785) and mid-term complications (area under the curve = 0.730, 95% confidence interval: 0.622–0.839). The sensitivity was 0.750 and 0.607, and the specificity was 0.589 and 0.765, respectively.

Conclusions

Our prediction model has clinical significance for risk assessment of early and mid-term complications and prevention of complications after catheterization for peritoneal dialysis.

Prevalence and risk factors of exit-site infection in incident peritoneal dialysis patients

BACKGROUND

Exit-site infection (ESI) is a common complication in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. Clearly understanding the risk factors may be useful for the prevention of ESI. This study was to explore the prevalence and risk factors of ESI in incident PD patients.

METHODS

We evaluated ESI in incident PD patients who had catheter insertion in our center between 1 January 2009 and 31 December 2013, with follow-up for 1 year. We collected data on demographics, clinical features, and nursing care methods of the exit site (ES).

RESULTS

We recruited 1133 incident PD patients (687 male (60.6%); mean age 47.0 ± 15.1 years), and 245 (21.6%) had diabetes. Median follow-up was 12.0 months. One hundred and thirty-one patients had 139 episodes of ESI with a rate of 92.8 patient-months per episode (0.13 episodes per year). Coagulase-negative staphylococcus was the main pathogen, accounting for 33.8% of the ESIs. Gram-positive rods, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas, fungi, and other organisms accounted for 23.0%, 15.8%, 1.4%, 1.4%, and 2.9%, respectively. No bacterial growth was found in 15.1%. There were no differences in demographic and laboratory data (age, gender, primary kidney disease, hemoglobin, white blood cell, serum albumin, blood urea nitrogen, serum creatinine, and C-reactive protein) between the ESI and non-ESI groups. Poor competency of ES care, poor catheter immobilization, history of catheter-pulling injury, and mechanical stress on the ES were significantly associated with increased risk of ESI.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of ESI was 0.13 episodes per year. Poor competency of ES care, catheter mobilization, history of catheter-pulling injury, and mechanical stress by waist belt or the protective bag of PD on ES were risk factors for ESI.

Management of peritoneal dialysis Mycobacterium abscessus exit-site infection: A case report and literature review

Peritoneal dialysis associated infections are common and associated with high morbidity and mortality, if not treated in a timely manner. Mycobacterium abscessus is an uncommon pathogen in peritoneal dialysis associated infections, but is resistant to standard antimicrobial therapies used. Here we present a case of a 56 year-old male with end stage kidney disease on peritoneal dialysis for 7 years who developed a Mycobacterium abscessus exit-site infection. Peritonitis and peritoneal dialysis catheter tunneled line infections were ruled out and he was treated with linezolid, amikacin, and azithromycin. He required peritoneal dialysis catheter removal and hemodialysis conversion. Antibiotics were de-escalated based on erm inducibility and antibiotic sensitivities. Linezolid and amikacin were continued for approximately 7 total weeks, with complete resolution of the infection. Further research is needed to refine challenges in the management of Mycobacterium abscessus exit-site infections, including risk factors for development of Mycobacterium abscessus, optimal selection of empiric antibiotic therapies, duration of antibiotics, and peritoneal dialysis catheter re-insertion timing.

Daily self-care practices influence exit-site condition in patients having peritoneal dialysis: A multicenter cross-sectional survey

AIMS

To investigate practice patterns in exit-site care and identify the risk factors for exit-site infection.

DESIGN

A quantitative cross-sectional design.

METHODS

Data were collected in 12 peritoneal dialysis (PD) centres in 2018. Daily exit-site care practice patterns and exit-site status of patients receiving PD were assessed through interviews and questionnaires.

RESULTS/FINDINGS

Most of the 1,204 patients adhered with the protocols about main aspects of exit-site care, such as cleansing agents selection, frequency of cleansing, catheter fixation, and following the catheter protective measures. However, their adherence levels on hand hygiene, mask wearing, observing exit site, examining secretion, and communicating with PD staff were rather low. Eighty-four patients' exit sites were evaluated as problematic exit site (PES). And 186 patients had catheter-related infection (CRI) history. After multivariable logistic regression analysis, diabetes (OR = 1.631), traction bleeding history (OR = 2.697), antibiotic agents use (OR = 2.460), compliance on mask wearing (OR = 0.794), and observing exit site (OR = 0.806) were influencing factors of CRI history. Traction bleeding history (OR = 2.436), CRI history (OR = 10.280), and effective communication (OR = 0.808) with PD staff were influencing factors for PES.

CONCLUSIONS

The adherence levels on different aspects of exit-site care were varied in patients having PD. Their self-care behaviours did correlate with the exit-site status.

IMPACT

The adherence level of patients' exit-site care practice needs attention of medical staff. Further studies about the optimal procedure in exit-site care were warranted.

Catheter Diversion Procedure With Exit-Site Renewal Promotes Peritoneal Dialysis Catheter Survival

Introduction

Catheter-related infections such as exit site infection (ESI) and tunnel infection (TI) are major causes of peritoneal dialysis (PD) discontinuation. For ESI/TI treatment, catheter diversion procedure (CDP) with exit-site renewal for catheter salvage presents an alternative to catheter removal. Nevertheless, CDP capability of improving PD catheter survival remains unclear.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed our hospital patients who started PD during 2001–2019 (n=148): 33 treated for ESI/TI by CDP (CDP group) and 115 treated for ESI/TI using conservative therapy or none (non-CDP group). A “virtual discontinuation group” was designated for patients in the CDP group who had received PD catheter removal instead of CDP and who had stopped PD. Kaplan-Meier analysis and log-rank test PD were used for intergroup catheter survival comparison. Associations between clinical factors and PD discontinuation or death were examined using Cox proportional hazards regression analyses.

Results

For patients (76% male, mean age of 61.7±13.0 years), 40 CDP were performed for 33 CDP group patients. Infection-free rates at 30 and 90 days after CDP were, respectively, 90% and 67%. The CDP group PD catheter survival rate was significantly higher than that of virtual discontinuation group (P < .01) and higher than that of the non-CDP group (P = .03). Multivariate analysis revealed independent association of serum albumin concentration (hazard ratio 0.33, 95% confidence interval 0.17–0.67), PD+HD combination therapy (hazard ratio 0.29, 95% confidence interval 0.17–0.49), and CDP (hazard ratio 0.44, 95% confidence interval 0.24–0.80) with PD discontinuation or death.

Conclusion

Results show that CDP may improve PD catheter survival as an effective and less-invasive surgical treatment for ESI/TI to avoid withdrawal of PD.

Exit site infection and peritonitis due to Serratia species in patients receiving peritoneal dialysis: Epidemiology and clinical outcomes

AIM

To study the epidemiology and clinical outcomes of catheter-related infections of Serratia species in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the patient characteristics, antibiotics susceptibility/resistance patterns and treatment outcomes of exit site infection (ESI) and peritonitis due to Serratia in PD patients during the period of 2004 to 2017.

RESULTS

One hundred and sixty-one patients had Serratia ESI, of which 10 (6.2%) progressed to tunnel tract involvement and 11 (6.8%) developed PD peritonitis. Nineteen (11.8%) patients with Serratia ESI failed to respond to medical treatment and required catheter removal. Fifty-six (34.8%) patients had repeat Serratia ESI, which occurred at 12.9 ± 13.6 months after the previous episode. Twenty-two patients had Serratia peritonitis, which accounted for 1% of peritonitis during the study period. Ten (45.5%) patients responded to medical treatment while 12 (54.5%) patients required catheter removal. Nine patients (36.4%) failed to resume PD and were converted to long-term haemodialysis. Two patients had repeat peritonitis at 2 months and 3 years, respectively, after the initial episode. Serratia species in PD patients showed high rates of resistance to ampicillin, and first- and second-generation cephalosporins, but were generally susceptible to aminoglycosides, carboxy-/ureido-penicillins and carbapenems.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that Serratia ESI show low risk of progression to peritonitis and favourable response to medical therapy, while Serratia peritonitis was associated with high rates of catheter removal and peritoneal failure.

Chlorhexidine-impregnated sponge dressing for prevention of catheter exit-site infection in peritoneal dialysis patients: a pilot study

PURPOSE

The study aimed to examine effect of chlorhexidine dressing in the prevention of peritoneal dialysis (PD)-related infection in PD patients.

METHODS

This single-center pilot study recruited 50 incident PD patients to use weekly chlorhexidine dressing. The primary outcome was exit-site/tunnel infection rate. Secondary outcomes were peritonitis rate, time to first PD-related infection, infection-related hospitalization, technique and patient survival, adverse events, and chlorhexidine dressing acceptability. These clinical outcomes were compared with those of a historical cohort (2016-2017) using daily gentamicin cream.

RESULTS

A total of 50 patients were recruited to use chlorhexidine and followed up for one year. The exit-site/tunnel infection rate was 0.09 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.02-0.22) and peritonitis rate was 0.07 (95% CI 0.01-0.19) episodes per patient-year with chlorhexidine dressing. The 1-year infection-free survival rates for exit-site/tunnel infection and peritonitis were 92% and 94%, respectively. The 1-year technique and patient survival rates were 86% and 96%, respectively. Overall, 12% of participants developed localized contact dermatitis with chlorhexidine. Most participants (73%) reported that chlorhexidine dressings were very acceptable. Compared to a historical cohort using gentamicin cream (n = 238), the chlorhexidine group had similar exit-site/tunnel infection rates (incidence rate ratio [IRR] 0.65, 95% CI 0.22-1.92) but had lower peritonitis rates (IRR 0.24, 95% CI 0.07-0.77), and lower PD infection-related hospitalization rates (IRR 0.21, 95% CI 0.06-0.69) after adjusting for age, sex, race, primary kidney disease, and diabetes mellitus.

CONCLUSION

Weekly chlorhexidine dressing was associated with acceptable PD-related infection outcomes and was well-accepted by patients, although had a 12% rate of delayed localized contact dermatitis.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER AND DATE

The study was registered under www.clinicaltrials.gov with the reference number of NCT03406520 on 23 January 2018.

Clinical utility of a traditional score system for the evaluation of the peritoneal dialysis exit-site infection in a national multicentric cohort study

INTRODUCTION

Exit-site infection (ESI) is an important risk factor for peritonitis in patients under chronic peritoneal dialysis (PD). The International Society for Peritoneal Dialysis (ISPD) recommend its diagnosis as the presence of purulent drainage in the exit site (ES) but time-consuming scores using others skin signs are routinely used.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the correlation between the diagnosis of ESI with a score based on five clinical signs obtained from ES inspection, and also if there are interaction with patient's race.

METHODS

Multicenter and prospective cohort. We included adult patients from 122 clinics, incident on PD and with a 12-month stay in therapy. The event of interest was ESI, defined as purulent drainage. The clinical score used was composed of hyperemia, edema, pain, scab, and granuloma. Statistical analysis was performed using multilevel logistic regression model, likelihood test, and Cohen concordance analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 35,354 ES assessments were performed during the first year of dialysis in 3297 patients. There was a rate of 10.1 (9.1-11.2) episodes of ESI per 1000 patients/month. In patients with ESI, the prevalence of hyperemia was 55.9%, edema 67.3%, pain 31.8%, and scab 23.2%. The agreement with the score was 60.6% and showed differences according to the patient's race, being 53.2% for African Americans descendants and 65.4% for others. The use of scales for the diagnosis of ESI does not add much information in addition to the presence of purulent secretion as currently recommended by the ISPD.

The impact of the superficial cuff position on the exit site and tunnel infections in CAPD patients

BACKGROUND

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) related infections continue to be a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients on PD. In the last ten years, in order to reduce cuff and exit-site infections, in continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) patients, we have positioned the superficial cuff subcutaneously 4 cm instead of 2 cm internal to the exit-site.

METHODS

We analysed the infective episodes occurred in 123 CAPD patients (88 men and 35 women, mean age 62.4 ± 16.8) treated for 3337 months between 1st January 2011 and 31th December 2018 at Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico.

RESULTS

31 of the 123 patients (25.2%) developed 52 episodes of exit site infection, with an incidence of 1 episode every 64.1 patient-months. The cumulative probability of remaining infection free was 80.7% at 12 months and 61.8% at 36 months. Gram-positive organism accounted for 78.7% of exit site infections. Forty-one episodes (87%) were successfully treated with medical therapy. Peritonitis incidence was 1 episode every 51.7 and 1 episode every 49.2 patient-months, in patients with or without a history of exit site infection respectively. The overall incidence of tunnel infection was 1 episode every 278.1 patient-months.

CONCLUSIONS

Positioning the superficial cuff subcutaneously at least 4 cm internal to the exit-site might prevent the bacterial cuff colonization and reduce ESIs, tunnel infections and peritonitis.

Nutritional Status in Peritoneal Dialysis: Nutritional Guidelines, Adequacy and the Management of Malnutrition

The positive impact of nutritional status on the health and treatment adequacy of peritoneal dialyzed patients has been well established. Protein intake is an important factor used to stratify malnutrition, with inadequate intake leading to protein-energy wasting during the course of therapy. In this review, we discuss the recommendations made by nephrological societies regarding nutrition in this population of dialysis patients. Special attention is given to the intake of protein, and recommendations on the intake of micronutrients are also discussed. Furthermore, factors that may impair nutritional intake and balance are discussed, with mention of the innovative strategies utilized to combat them. In light of inconsistent recommendations that vary between each respective society, as well as a general lack of concise information, it is our intention to call for further research regarding nutritional recommendations in peritoneal dialysis (PD), as well as to advocate for clear and accessible information for patients.

Comparison of Exit-Site Infection Frequency in Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis and Automated Peritoneal Dialysis Patients: A Single-Center Experience

Objectives:

Catheter exit-site infection (ESI) is generally caused by skin flora. Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) patients have more contact with their catheters than automated peritoneal dialysis (APD) patients as a result of performing multiple exchanges per day. The aim of the present study was to compare the frequency of ESIs between these 2 peritoneal dialysis (PD) modalities.

Methods:

PD patients from 2001 to 2015 were enrolled in the study. Patients transferred from CAPD to APD were excluded. All of the data were collected retrospectively. The rate of ESI occurrence and culture results in the CAPD and APD groups were compared.

Results:

The data of 280 patients were evaluated. APD patients represented 23.2% of the study cohort. Prevalence of peritonitis was 87.6% if a patient had an ESI and 50.7% if there was no ESI (p=0.000). The frequency of ESI was similar between the 2 peritoneal dialysis modalities (p=0.343). There was a statistically significant difference in the causative organism of infection between the 2 groups (p=0.021).

Conclusion:

The ESI rate was similar in the CAPD and APD patients though CAPD requires more exchanges, and therefore there is more contact with the catheter. All PD patients, regardless of the treatment modality used, are expected to perform exchanges according to standard rules for connecting the catheter to the PD solution bag. As long as patients observe these guidelines, there would appear to be no increased ESI risk related specifically to the modality.

Infection Prophylaxis in Peritoneal Dialysis Patients: Results from an Australia/New Zealand Survey

Background

Clinical practice guidelines aim to reduce the rates of peritoneal dialysis (PD)-related infections, a common complication of PD in end-stage kidney disease patients. We describe the clinical practices used by Australian and New Zealand nephrologists to prevent PD-related infections in PD patients.

Methods

A survey of PD practices in relation to the use of antibiotic and antifungal prophylaxis in PD patients was conducted of practicing nephrologists identified via the Australia and New Zealand Society of Nephrology (ANZSN) membership in 2013.

Results

Of 333 nephrologists approached, 133 (39.9%) participated. Overall, 127 (95.5%) nephrologists prescribed antibiotics at the time of Tenckhoff catheter insertion, 85 (63.9%) routinely screened for nasal S. aureus carriage, with 76 (88.4%) reporting they treated S. aureus carriers with mupirocin ointment. Following Tenckhoff catheter insertion, 79 (59.4%) prescribed mupirocin ointment at the exit site or intranasally, and 93 (69.9%) nephrologists routinely prescribed a course of oral antifungal agent whenever their PD patients were given a course of antibiotics.

Conclusions

Although the majority of nephrologists prescribe antibiotics at the time of Tenckhoff catheter insertion, less than 70% routinely prescribe mupirocin ointment and/or prophylactic antifungal therapy. This variation in practice in Australia and New Zealand may contribute to the disparity in PD-related infection rates that is seen between units.

Peritoneal Microbiome in End-Stage Renal Disease Patients and the Impact of Peritoneal Dialysis Therapy

Factors influencing the occurrence of peritoneal dialysis (PD)-related infections are still far from fully understood. Recent studies described the existence of specific microbiomes in body sites previously considered microbiome-free, unravelling new microbial pathways in the human body. In the present study, we analyzed the peritoneum of end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) patients to determine if they harbored a specific microbiome and if it is altered in patients on PD therapy. We conducted a cross-sectional study where the peritoneal microbiomes from ESKD patients with intact peritoneal cavities (ESKD non-PD, n = 11) and ESKD patients undergoing PD therapy (ESKD PD, n = 9) were analyzed with a 16S rRNA approach. Peritoneal tissue of ESKD patients contained characteristically low-abundance microbiomes dominated by Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Actinobacteria, and Bacteroidetes. Patients undergoing PD therapy presented lower species richness, with dominance by the Pseudomonadaceae and Prevotelaceae families. This study provides the first characterization of the peritoneal microbiome in ESKD patients, bringing new insight to the human microbiome. Additionally, PD therapy may induce changes in this unique microbiome. The clinical relevance of these observations should be further explored to uncover the role of the peritoneal microbiome as a key element in the onset or aggravation of infection in ESKD patients, especially those undergoing PD.

Peritoneal Dialysis-Related Infection Rates and Outcomes: Results From the Peritoneal Dialysis Outcomes and Practice Patterns Study (PDOPPS)

RATIONALE & OBJECTIVE

Peritoneal dialysis (PD)-related peritonitis carries high morbidity for PD patients. Understanding the characteristics and risk factors for peritonitis can guide regional development of prevention strategies. We describe peritonitis rates and the associations of selected facility practices with peritonitis risk among countries participating in the Peritoneal Dialysis Outcomes and Practice Patterns Study (PDOPPS).

STUDY DESIGN

Observational prospective cohort study.

SETTING & PARTICIPANTS

7,051 adult PD patients in 209 facilities across 7 countries (Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Japan, Thailand, United Kingdom, United States).

EXPOSURES

Facility characteristics (census count, facility age, nurse to patient ratio) and selected facility practices (use of automated PD, use of icodextrin or biocompatible PD solutions, antibiotic prophylaxis strategies, duration of PD training).

OUTCOMES

Peritonitis rate (by country, overall and variation across facilities), microbiology patterns.

ANALYTICAL APPROACH

Poisson rate estimation, proportional rate models adjusted for selected patient case-mix variables.

RESULTS

2,272 peritonitis episodes were identified in 7,051 patients (crude rate, 0.28 episodes/patient-year). Facility peritonitis rates were variable within each country and exceeded 0.50/patient-year in 10% of facilities. Overall peritonitis rates, in episodes per patient-year, were 0.40 (95% CI, 0.36-0.46) in Thailand, 0.38 (95% CI, 0.32-0.46) in the United Kingdom, 0.35 (95% CI, 0.30-0.40) in Australia/New Zealand, 0.29 (95% CI, 0.26-0.32) in Canada, 0.27 (95% CI, 0.25-0.30) in Japan, and 0.26 (95% CI, 0.24-0.27) in the United States. The microbiology of peritonitis was similar across countries, except in Thailand, where Gram-negative infections and culture-negative peritonitis were more common. Facility size was positively associated with risk for peritonitis in Japan (rate ratio [RR] per 10 patients, 1.07; 95% CI, 1.04-1.09). Lower peritonitis risk was observed in facilities that had higher automated PD use (RR per 10 percentage points greater, 0.95; 95% CI, 0.91-1.00), facilities that used antibiotics at catheter insertion (RR, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.69-0.99), and facilities with PD training duration of 6 or more (vs <6) days (RR, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.68-0.96). Lower peritonitis risk was seen in facilities that used topical exit-site mupirocin or aminoglycoside ointment, but this association did not achieve conventional levels of statistical significance (RR, 0.79; 95% CI, 0.62-1.01).

LIMITATIONS

Sampling variation, selection bias (rate estimates), and residual confounding (associations).

CONCLUSIONS

Important international differences exist in the risk for peritonitis that may result from varied and potentially modifiable treatment practices. These findings may inform future guidelines in potentially setting lower maximally acceptable peritonitis rates.

Evaluation of fluorinated hydroxyapatite nanoparticles as an antibacterial material for catheter coating

Background

Catheter-related infection of peritoneal dialysis (PD) is one of the serious factors of peritonitis. However, an antibacterial PD catheter has not been commercially available in Japan yet. From an infection control viewpoint, it is necessary to develop an antibacterial coating material for catheters with a long-term effectiveness.

Methods

Fluorinated hydroxyapatite (F-HAp) nanoparticles were prepared by a wet chemical process. F-HAps with different F substitution contents were prepared by adjusting the feed ratio of F ions versus sites of OH groups in HAp structures. The characterization and evaluation of F-HAps were conducted using several analytical equipment and an antibacterial powder assay.

Results

The F-HAp nanoparticles possessed highly crystalline and dispersibility. The F-HAps were named as F(30)-HAp, F(50)-HAp, and F(100)-HAp and were 24, 52, and 84% of the actual F substitution content, respectively. The nanomaterials showed acidic resistance, i.e., chemical stability, compared to normal HAp. In an antibacterial assay of F(100)-HAp with 50 mg in 0.2 mL of NaCl aqueous solution, four types of causative bacteria of catheter-related infections,Pseudomonas aeruginosa,Staphylococcus aureus,Enterobacter aerogenes, andKlebsiella pneumoniaewere used. The antibacterial activities of F(100)-HAp showed 50–60% against the microorganisms. F ions were gradually released and finally plateaued at 24 weeks.

Conclusions

The retention possibility of the antibacterial effect of F(100)-HAp potentially lasted for 24 weeks based on the F ions release behavior. It is expected that the antibacterial performance can be improved by the precise control of material engineering technology, although the duration of the effect has not yet been satisfactory for a PD catheter.

Proton pump inhibitor use increases the risk of peritonitis in peritoneal dialysis patients

Peritonitis is a major and the most significant complication of peritoneal dialysis (PD). Although some predictors of peritonitis in PD patients are known, the association between proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use and peritonitis has not been characterized. Here, we examined whether PPI use is a risk factor for the development of peritonitis, based on a single-center retrospective analysis of 230 consecutive Japanese PD patients at Narita Memorial Hospital. We assessed the association between PPI use and subsequent first episode of peritonitis using multivariate Cox proportional hazards models, following adjustment for clinically relevant factors. The median follow-up period was 36 months (interquartile range, 19–57 months). In total, 86 patients (37.4%) developed peritonitis. Analysis with multivariate Cox proportional hazards models revealed the following significant predictors of peritonitis: PPI use (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] = 1.72, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.11–2.66; P = 0.016) and low serum albumin level (per g/dl adjusted HR = 0.59, 95% CI: 0.39–0.90; P = 0.014). Thus, PPI use was independently associated with PD-related peritonitis. The results suggest that nephrology physicians should exercise caution when prescribing PPIs for PD patients.

Peritoneal catheter infections : data from the French language peritoneal dialysis registry (RDPLF), risk factors

Peritoneal catheter infections : data from the French language peritoneal dialysis registry (RDPLF), risk factors The French Language Peritoneal Dialysis Registry (RDPLF) record since 1997 all data dealing with peritoneal catheter insertion and follow up. The aim of this study is to analyze catheter infections on 10801 catheters in 144 centres from January 1, 1997 and December 31, 2018. Infections are more common in the first month and 50% occur before the tenth month. The risk of infection increases in case of wall hematoma, initial fluid leakage, and obesity. It decreases with the use of prophylactic antibiotics at the time of catheter insertion, with experienced operator, if the first dressing is delayed for 7 days, and with mupirocin as exit-site prophylaxis. During last two decades the percentage of Staphylococcus aureus infections has decreased, whereas the proportion of Pseudomonas, Corynebacterium and other Gram + cocci increased. The incidence of catheter infections is low compared to literature data: it decreased to 0.16 episodes per year for the 2013-2017 period. Adherence to ISPD guidelines: preoperative antibioprophylaxis is the most followed guideline (70.7% of catheter implantations in 2018). Local antibioprophylaxis concerns only 15.6% of catheters, and remains concentrated in a few centres ; mupirocin is the most frequently used agent. Screening for nasal carriage of S. aureus is performed in only 42% of cases. The catheter section of the RDPLF has allowed the follow-up of clinical practices incidence of infections and ecology for 21 years, both at the national and center level Our study confirms a wide variability in clinical practices, compared to ISPD guidelines.

Capnocytophaga canimorsus peritonitis diagnosed by mass spectrometry in a diabetic patient undergoing peritoneal dialysis: a case report

Background

Bacterial peritonitis is a serious complication of patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis (PD). Although the identification of causative organisms and use of appropriate antibiotics are essential for treatment, rare and fastidious bacteria are sometimes difficult to detect by conventional biochemical assays. Capnocytophaga canimorsus is a fastidious and slow-growing bacterium that forms a part of the normal oral flora of dogs and cats and is extremely rare as a peritonitis-causing organism. This report demonstrates the usefulness of a mass spectrometry-based technique in identifying such a rare organism in PD-related peritonitis and discusses the diagnosis and treatment of C. canimorsus peritonitis.

Case presentation

A 49-year-old woman with type 2 diabetes mellitus underwent PD for two years. Repeated exit-site infections led to subcutaneous pathway diversion two months ago. She was hospitalized with fever and abdominal pain as well as cloudy dialysis effluent. Laboratory data revealed increased serum C-reactive protein level and white blood cell (WBC) count in the effluent. Her exit site had no sign of infection, leading to the diagnosis of PD-related peritonitis. Initial therapy with intraperitoneal ceftazidime immediately ameliorated her symptoms, and the WBC count in the effluent normalized in five days. Culture test results of the dialysis effluent on admission were negative with no information regarding the infection route. However, mass spectrometry (MALDI Biotyper, Bruker Daltonics) successfully obtained the specific spectral pattern for C. canimorsus. She had four cats in her house and was advised not to allow the cats in the room where the bag exchange took place.

Conclusions

C. canimorsus is a rare cause of peritonitis in PD patients and is usually susceptible to intraperitoneal third-generation cephalosporins. This mass spectrometry-based bacterial identification method could provide more opportunities to identify uncommon causes and promote appropriate antibiotics therapy in PD-related peritonitis.

Repeat Peritoneal Dialysis Exit-Site Infection: Definition and Outcomes

Background:The most common complication of peritoneal dialysis (PD) is infection. Despite this, there are no clear guidelines for the management of repeat exit-site infection (ESI), and best practice is not known. We describe our unit's experience of repeat ESI and clinical outcomes in this cohort.Methods:Retrospective case note review of all PD patients with positive ESI swabs at our center between 1 January 2012 and 1 January 2018. Patients were included in the study if they had 2 or more ESI with the same organism within a 12-month period and an initial positive response to antibiotic therapy.Results:Overall, 31 of 248 patients had repeat ESI. The 2 most common causative organisms were Staphylococcus aureus (n = 16, 52%) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (n = 10, 32%). Twenty (65%) patients developed subsequent peritonitis. The infection resolved with further antibiotics alone in 10 (32%) patients and in 6 patients after PD catheter exchange. The PD catheter was removed in 16 (52%) patients (including 5 after an initial catheter exchange) requiring transfer to hemodialysis (HD). Six (19%) patients died within 12 months of repeat ESI. Both repeat Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus infections were associated with high rates of dialysis modality change (70% and 50%, respectively).Conclusion:We have developed the first definition for repeat ESI. Repeat ESI is clinically important and results in significant morbidity and mortality. Following repeat ESI, peritonitis rates are high and a significant number of patients switch dialysis modality. Studies are needed to determine whether interventions such as early catheter exchange would improve outcomes.

Peritoneal Dialysis-Associated Peritonitis

Peritonitis is a common and severe complication in peritoneal dialysis (PD). Detailed recommendations on the prevention and treatment of PD-associated peritonitis have been published by the International Society for Peritoneal Dialysis (ISPD), but there is a substantial variation in clinical practice among dialysis units. Prophylactic antibiotics administered before PD catheter insertion, colonoscopy, or invasive gynecologic procedures, daily topical application of antibiotic cream or ointment to the catheter exit site, and prompt treatment of exit site or catheter infection are key measures to prevent PD-associated peritonitis. When a patient on PD presents with clinical features compatible with PD-associated peritonitis, empirical antibiotic therapy, with coverage of both Gram-positive and Gram-negative organisms (including Pseudomonas species), should be started once the appropriate microbiologic specimens have been obtained. Intraperitoneal is the preferred route of administration. Antifungal prophylaxis, preferably oral nystatin, should be added to prevent secondary fungal peritonitis. Once the PD effluent Gram stain or culture and sensitivity results are available, antibiotic therapy can be adjusted accordingly. A detailed description on the dosage of individual antibiotic can be found in the latest recommendations by the ISPD. The duration of antibiotics is usually 2-3 weeks, depending on the specific organisms identified. Catheter removal and temporary hemodialysis support is recommended for refractory, relapsing, or fungal peritonitis. In some patients, a new PD catheter could be inserted after complete resolution of the peritonitis. PD catheter removal should also be considered for refractory exit site or tunnel infections. After the improvement in clinical practice, there is a worldwide trend of reduction in PD-associated peritonitis rate, supporting the use of PD as a first-line dialysis modality.

Peritoneal Dialysis Access Associated Infections

Infection is a significant driver of morbidity and mortality in patients with end-stage renal disease undergoing maintenance dialysis. In the United States, septicemia and other infections account for 8% deaths in patients undergoing dialysis. In patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis (PD), PD-related peritonitis remains the most frequent treatment-related infection and is the greatest contributor to infection-related morbidity, including risk for hospitalization, and temporary or permanent transfer to hemodialysis. In the 4 decades since the introduction of ambulatory PD in clinical practice, a large number of treatment innovations have been shown to be effective in reducing the risk for exit site infection and PD-related peritonitis. Notwithstanding the evidence for efficacy of these innovations and the numerous adverse health consequences with PD-related peritonitis, the uptake of these interventions in clinical practice around the world remains inconsistent. This article reviews current knowledge with regards to prevention of PD-associated infections, and the diagnosis and management of exit site infections and peritonitis.

Peritoneal dialysis-associated infection caused by Mycobacterium abscessus: a case report

Background

Peritoneal dialysis (PD)-associated infection caused by Mycobacterium spp. is rare. Mycobacterium abscessus is one of the most resistant acid-fast bacteria, and treatment is also the most difficult and refractory. Thus, we report a case of PD-associated peritonitis caused by Mycobacterium abscessus that was difficult to treat and led to PD failure.

Case presentation

We recently encountered a 56-year-old man who developed PD-associated infection. We initially suspected exit-site infection (ESI) and tunnel infection (TI) caused by methicillin-resistant coagulase-negative Staphylococcus. However, antibiotic therapy did not provide any significant improvement. Thus, we performed simultaneous removal and reinsertion of a PD catheter at a new exit site. The patient subsequently developed peritonitis and Mycobacterium abscessus was detected in the peritoneal effluent. Thus, the reinserted catheter was removed, hemodialysis was started, and the patient was eventually discharged.

Conclusions

In cases of refractory ESI or TI, it is important to consider non-tuberculous mycobacteria as the potentially causative organism. Even if acid-fast bacterial staining is negative or not performed, detection of Gram-negative bacillus may lead to suspicion and early identification of Mycobacterium spp. In PD-associated infection by Mycobacterium abscessus, catheter removal is necessary in many cases. Simultaneous removal and reinsertion of the catheter is not recommended, even in cases of ESI or TI. Reinsertion should only be attempted after complete resolution of peritoneal symptoms. After removal of the catheter, careful follow-up is necessary, paying attention to complications such as wound infection, peritonitis, and ileus. In addition, the selection and treatment period of antibiotics in PD-associated infection by Mycobacterium abscessus remains unclear, and it is an important topic for future discussion.

Chronic dialysis in patients with end-stage renal disease: Relevance to kidney xenotransplantation

Renal allotransplantation clearly offers better survival and quality of life for end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients than chronic dialysis. The median waiting time for a deceased donor kidney in a suitable ESRD patient is 3.9 years. The initial candidates for pig kidney xenotransplantation will be those with ESRD unlikely to receive an allograft within a reasonable period of time. It is thus reasonable to ascertain whether clinical trials of xenotransplantation might likewise offer superior outcomes. Chronic dialysis in patients with ESRD is associated with poor quality of life, significant morbidity, and relatively high mortality, with only 56% surviving 3 years and 42% at 5 years. However, a significant number of these patients, because of comorbidities, frailty, etc, would not be considered for renal allotransplantation and likely not for xenotransplantation. As genetically engineered pig kidneys have satisfactorily supported life in immunosuppressed nonhuman primates for many months or even more than a year, consideration in carefully selected patients could be given to pig kidney xenotransplantation. We suggest that, in order to give a patient the best possible outcome, the pig kidney could be transplanted pre-emptively (before dialysis is initiated). If it fails at any stage, the patient would then begin chronic dialysis and continue to await an allograft. The present (limited) evidence is that failure of a pig graft would not be detrimental to a subsequent allograft.

Peritoneal dialysis-related peritonitis: challenges and solutions

Peritoneal dialysis is an effective treatment modality for patients with end-stage renal disease. The relative use of peritoneal dialysis versus hemodialysis varies widely by country. Data from a 2004 survey reports the percentage of patients with end-stage renal disease treated with peritoneal dialysis to be 5%-10% in economically developed regions like the US and Western Europe to as much as 75% in Mexico. This disparity is probably related to the availability and access to hemodialysis, or in some cases patient preference for peritoneal over hemodialysis. Peritoneal dialysis-related peritonitis remains the major complication and primary challenge to the long-term success of peritoneal dialysis. Fifty years ago, with the advent of the Tenckhoff catheter, patients averaged six episodes of peritonitis per year on peritoneal dialysis. In 2016, the International Society for Peritoneal Dialysis proposed a benchmark of 0.5 episodes of peritonitis per year or one episode every 2 years. Despite the marked reduction in peritonitis over time, peritonitis for the individual patient is problematic. The mortality for an episode of peritonitis is 5% and is a cofactor for mortality in another 16% of affected patients. Prevention of peritonitis and prompt and appropriate management of peritonitis is essential for the long-term success of peritoneal dialysis in all patients. In this review, challenges and solutions are addressed regarding the pathogenesis, clinical features, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of peritoneal dialysis-related peritonitis from the viewpoint of an infectious disease physician.

Exit Site Infection due to Mycobacterium chelonae in an Elderly Patient on Peritoneal Dialysis

Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are rarely isolated from peritoneal dialysis (PD)-associated catheter infections. However, NTM infection is usually difficult to treat and leads to catheter loss. Prompt diagnosis is essential for appropriate treatment. A 70-year-old Japanese man who had been on PD for 2 years and with a medical history of 2 episodes of exit site infections (ESIs) due to methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus was admitted to the hospital due to suspected ESI recurrence. However, Gram staining of the pus revealed no gram-positive cocci. Instead, weakly stained gram-positive rods were observed after 7 days of incubation, which were also positive for acid-fast staining. Rapidly growing NTM Mycobacterium chelonae was isolated on day 14. Despite administering a combination antibiotic therapy, ESI could not be controlled, and catheter removal surgery was performed on day 21. Although PD was discontinued temporarily, the patient did not require hemodialysis, without any uremic symptoms. The catheter was reinserted on day 48, and PD was reinitiated on day 61. The patient was discharged on day 65. Antibiotic therapy was continued for 3 months after discharge, with no indications of recurrent infections observed. It is important to consider the risk of NTM infections in patients on PD. Acid-fast staining could be a key test for prompt diagnosis and provision of an appropriate treatment.