ISPD Peritonitis Recommendations: 2016 Update on Prevention and Treatment

A predictive model of treatment effectiveness of refractory peritoneal dialysis-related peritonitis in patients with peritoneal dialysis: a single-center observational study in South China

Background

To prevent loss of peritoneal function caused by persistent abdominal inflammation, the guidelines recommend early extubation in patients with refractory peritoneal dialysis (PD)-associated peritonitis (rPDAP). In attempt to pinpoint high-risk patient cohorts that did not respond to treatment for refractory peritonitis, we created a model to predict the effectiveness of peritonitis treatment.

Methods

This observational cohort study included PD patients from 1 January 2011 to 31 December 2020. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to explore the factors affecting the occurrence and prognosis of rPDAP, and to construct a predictive model for the success of rPDAP treatment. Receiver operator characteristic curve, calibration and decision curve were drawn to evaluate the predictive performance of the model.

Results

A total of 1397 cases of PDAP occurred in our center during the study period, of which 558 cases were diagnosed as rPDAP. The incidence of refractory peritonitis was 0.047 cases/patient-year. In the study, 440 cases with rPDAP were included. Among them, 304 cases (69.1%) had been successfully cured, while 136 cases (30.9%) were treatment failure, of which 19 cases (13.9%) died, 85 cases (62.5%) transferred to hemodialysis and 32 cases (23.5%) were relapse/recurrent peritonitis. Dialysate culture results showed 132 (30.0%) cases were infected with Gram-positive bacteria and 161 (36.6%) Gram-negative bacteria. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that episodes of peritonitis previously ≤3 times were correlated with the better prognosis of rPDAP, but white blood cell (WBC) counts in peritoneal dialysate on the third day of peritonitis or WBC counts on the fifth day ≥300 × 106/L, the pathogenic microorganism with Gram-negative bacteria, as well as longer duration of PD were associated with poor outcomes. The C-statistical value of the training data set was 0.870 (95% confidence interval 0.821-0.918). The calibration curve and clinical decision-making curve also proved that this nomogram could accurately predict the success of treatment in patients with refractory peritonitis.

Conclusion

The nomogram model created through internal verification indicated a strong clinical application value and a high prognostic prediction accuracy for rPDAP.

The Use of Intraperitoneal Ampicillin in a Patient With Enterococcus faecalis Peritonitis

Introduction: Peritoneal dialysis (PD) - associated peritonitis is a serious complication of peritoneal dialysis (PD). The 2022 International Society of Peritoneal Dialysis (ISPD) guidelines do not recommend intraperitoneal (IP) ampicillin for treatment of Enterococcal PD - associated peritonitis. To date, there is no in vivo data to support use of IP ampicillin for the treatment of Enterococcus faecalis. Case Description: A 69-year-old man with a past medical history of end stage kidney disease (ESKD) requiring continuous cycling peritoneal dialysis (CCPD) was admitted to the hospital and treated for peritonitis with E. faecalis. The patient's CCPD prescription was 2.5% Dianeal with 5 total exchanges. IP ampicillin was added to the first 4 exchanges and additional ampicillin was added to the last fill. The patient successfully completed the treatment course with clinical cure. Discussion: The use of IP ampicillin for E. faecalis peritonitis is controversial and previously lacked compelling clinical evidence for or against its use. This case demonstrates treatment of peritonitis using a modified dosing strategy with ampicillin added to each CCPD exchange and last fill. The loss of ampicillin antimicrobial activity reported in vitro with E. faecalis was not supported by this case.

Structured training initiative (STI) for caregivers of children on peritoneal dialysis: a prospective study of the impact on the rate of peritonitis

BACKGROUND

Training caregivers performing PD is an important measure to prevent peritonitis. A low literacy rate hinders training in low-resource settings. We designed a structured training initiative (STI) and objective structured assessment (OSA) using visual and kinesthetic resources with minimal use of written resources. We studied the impact of STIs on caregivers' knowledge and practical skills and the rate of peritonitis.

METHODS

This prospective study conducted initial STI (iSTI) for caregivers of children initiating PD and retraining STI (rSTI) for those already on PD. OSA was administered after completion of training, and those scoring < 95% were retrained. Re-assessment was done at 3, 6, and 12 months, and those who scored < 95% underwent re-training. The rate of PD peritonitis and the time to first peritonitis were compared between the STI group and the cohort on PD in our center who received standard training before STI (controls).

RESULTS

Caregivers of 40 children were included. The median duration of iSTI and rSTI was 19.5 (18, 20) and 9 (9, 9.5) hrs, and the OSA scores were 97% (97%, 98%) and 96% (96%, 98%), respectively. Only 5% required retraining. There was a significant reduction in the rate of PD peritonitis (0.29 vs. 0.69 episodes/patient-year; p < 0.001) and longer time to peritonitis (189 vs. 69 days; p < 0.001) in the STI group when compared to the controls (n = 32).

CONCLUSIONS

STI was effective in training caregivers for peritoneal dialysis. There was a reduction in the rate of peritonitis and a longer time to first peritonitis in the STI cohort.

Corynebacterium amycolatum peritonitis in a patient undergoing peritoneal dialysis: case report and literature review

Peritoneal dialysis is a blood purification technique used in cases of end-stage chronic kidney failure, based on the filtering capabilities of the peritoneum. Infections, often caused by poor asepsis during catheter manipulation, are generally attributed to Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus. Corynebacterium, usually considered non-pathogenic, is rarely involved in these infections. We present a case of peritonitis due to Corynebacterium amycolatum in a patient undergoing peritoneal dialysis. The diagnosis was made based on cytobacteriological examination of the dialysate fluid, which on two occasions showed high levels of white blood cells with a predominance of neutrophilic polymorphonuclear and a monomorphic appearance of colonies on agar medium, whose identification by biochemical tests and antibiotic sensitivity study confirmed the presence of C. amycolatum. The patient was successfully treated with vancomycin, resulting in symptom resolution and sterilization of the dialysate fluid. Although rare, the involvement of Corynebacterium species underscores the importance of confirming its pathogenicity. Further studies are needed to better understand the epidemiology of these infections and guide future treatments. This case also highlights the need for a rigorous approach to confirming the pathogenicity of Corynebacterium despite its traditional classification as a contaminant.

Clinical outcomes in peritoneal dialysis with refractory peritonitis: significance of the day 5 cell count

BACKGROUND

Peritoneal dialysis-associated peritonitis is a common and severe complication of peritoneal dialysis, associated with high morbidity and mortality. However, there's a lack of research on refractory peritonitis, which is difficult to manage and has a poor prognosis. Our study aimed to investigate factors affecting clinical outcomes in peritoneal dialysis patients with refractory peritonitis over a 12-year period at a medical faculty hospital in Turkey.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study at a single center from January 2009 to December 2020, involving 135 patients with 236 episodes of refractory peritonitis. The average age of the patient cohort was 53.0 ± 15.9 years, and 72 (53.4%) of the patients were male. The leading identified causes of end-stage kidney disease were glomerulonephritis, hypertensive glomerulosclerosis, and diabetic nephropathy. Data on microbiological etiology, dialysate white blood cell counts, and patient demographics were analyzed to identify catheter removal risk factors. Statistical significance was set at p ≤ 0.05.

RESULTS

Comparative analysis between patients with and without catheter loss revealed no significant differences in gender, age, presence of diabetes, prior hemodialysis, or duration of peritoneal dialysis. However, multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that a dialysate white blood cell count exceeding 1000/mm3 on day 5 and hospitalization had a positive association with catheter loss, while the presence of gram-positive bacterial growth had an inverse correlation.

CONCLUSION

Our study shows that fifth-day dialysate white blood cell count predicts refractory peritonitis outcomes. Future research should focus on developing tools to manage catheter removal proactively and enhance patient prognosis.

The impact of shortening patient-doctor contact duration on early peritoneal dialysis-related infections

Early peritoneal dialysis (PD)-related infection is a severe complication. This study investigated the relationship between patient-doctor contact (PDC) duration and early PD-related infection. In the Peritoneal Dialysis Outcomes and Practice Patterns Study (PDOPPS) Korea, incident dialysis patients receiving PD were divided into two groups based on PDC duration (< 15 min versus ≥ 15 min), which was defined as the duration a nephrologist typically spends with a patient receiving PD during each visit according to the facility practice pattern. Early risks of PD-related infections, such as peritonitis and catheter-related infection (onset within 3 and 12 months of PD), were compared to the PDC duration using Cox regression. The study included 276 patients (184 [66.7%] in the shorter PDC group [< 15 min] and 92 [33.3%] in the longer PDC group [≥ 15 min]). The average age did not differ between the groups. The incidences of 3- and 12-month PD-related infections were significantly lower in the longer PDC group than in the shorter PDC group (3 months: 1.1% versus 9.8%, P = 0.007; 12 months: 9.8% versus 23.4%, P = 0.007). Longer PDC was independently associated with a lower risk of PD-related infections at 3 and 12 months (3 months: adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 0.11; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.02-0.85, P = 0.034; 12 months: aHR, 0.43; 95% CI 0.19-0.99, P = 0.048). Overall, a longer PDC duration was associated with a significantly lower risk of early PD-related infection.

Clinical practice guideline for the prevention and management of peritoneal dialysis associated infections in children: 2024 update

Infection-related complications remain the most significant cause for morbidity and technique failure in infants, children and adolescents who receive maintenance peritoneal dialysis (PD). The 2024 update of the Clinical Practice Guideline for the Prevention and Management of Peritoneal Dialysis Associated Infection in Children builds upon previous such guidelines published in 2000 and 2012 and provides comprehensive treatment guidance as recommended by an international group of pediatric PD experts based upon a review of published literature and pediatric PD registry data. The workgroup prioritized updating key clinical issues contained in the 2012 guidelines, in addition to addressing additional questions developed using the PICO format. A variety of new guideline statements, highlighted by those pertaining to antibiotic therapy of peritonitis as a result of the evolution of antibiotic susceptibilities, antibiotic stewardship and clinical registry data, as well as new clinical benchmarks, are included. Recommendations for future research designed to fill important knowledge gaps are also provided.

Risk Factors of the Occurrence and Treatment Failure of Refractory Peritoneal Dialysis-Associated Peritonitis: A Single-Center Retrospective Study From China

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics and prognosis of refractory peritoneal dialysis (PD)-associated peritonitis as well as the risk factors of its occurrence and treatment failure.

METHODS

A single-center retrospective cohort study was conducted among 519 patients undergoing PD from January 2007 to October 2021. According to the International Society for Peritoneal Dialysis guidelines, all episodes occurred in our center were divided into two groups: refractory and nonrefractory. Demographic, biochemical, and pathogenic bacteria and treatment outcome data were collected.

RESULTS

During the 15-year period, 282 episodes of peritonitis occurred in 166 patients undergoing PD. The refractory rate was 34.0% (96/282). Gram-positive organisms were the leading cause of peritonitis (47.9%); however, gram-negative organisms were predominant in refractory peritonitis (34.4%, p = 0.002). Multiple logistic regression revealed that gram-negative organism-based peritonitis, longer PD duration, and female sex were the significant independent predictors of refractory peritonitis. Among 96 refractory episodes, white blood cell (WBC) count, dialysate WBC on Day 3, and PD duration ≥5 years were the independent risk factors of treatment failure.

CONCLUSIONS

Gram-negative organism-based peritonitis, longer PD duration, and female sex were the independent risk factors of refractory peritonitis. Refractory peritonitis with higher WBC count, higher dialysate WBC on Day 3, and PD duration ≥5 years increased treatment failure risk and required immediate PD catheter removal. The timely identification of refractory peritonitis with high risk of treatment failure as well as timely PD catheter removal is important.

Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis Due to Bacillus licheniformis in an Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease Patient on Peritoneal Dialysis: A Rare Presentation Linked to Avian Exposure

This case report details a rare instance of Bacillus licheniformis-induced peritonitis in a 43-year-old male diagnosed with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) undergoing peritoneal dialysis (PD). The patient presented with acute onset of severe abdominal pain and fever, prompting a microbiological investigation that revealed Gram-positive bacilli. Initial empirical treatment with ceftazidime and vancomycin was followed by targeted vancomycin therapy upon identification of B. licheniformis. The patient's clinical course showed steady improvement, corroborated by a recent history of avian contact. This case underscores the critical consideration of uncommon pathogens and environmental exposures in managing peritonitis among peritoneal dialysis patients.

Discontinuation of maintenance peritoneal dialysis in children-A 10-year review from a single center in a low resource setting

INTRODUCTION

In South Africa, only children considered eligible for transplantation are offered dialysis as bridge to kidney transplantation. Maintenance peritoneal dialysis (PD) is preferred and has several advantages over hemodialysis (HD). While awaiting transplantation, PD may be discontinued due to permanent transfer to HD or death while on PD, of which the occurrence and burden is not known in our setting. We investigated the rate of discontinuation of maintenance PD, and associated factors among children awaiting a kidney transplant under challenging socio-economic circumstances in a low resource setting.

METHODS

Single center retrospective analysis of children receiving maintenance PD. Outcomes included the proportion of children who discontinued PD before transplantation, associated factors and timing of discontinuation, and the proportion transplanted. Time to discontinuation or transplantation was displayed using a Kaplan-Meier curve.

RESULTS

Sixty-seven children who received maintenance automated PD as initial dialysis modality were identified from the kidney transplant waiting list between January 2009 and December 2018. Complete data was available for 52 of the 67 children. Four children had prior failed kidney transplants. The median age was 11 years (interquartile range 6.0, 13.1). Overall, 17/52 (32.7%) children discontinued PD, with 13 (25%) transfers to HD and 4 deaths (7.7%), whereas 29/52 (55.8%) received a kidney transplant. Three of the deaths were PD related. Six children remained on maintenance PD at the end of the study period. Over a half of our patients discontinued PD by 12 months, and 80% by 30 months. Most PD discontinuations were associated with peritonitis.

CONCLUSIONS

The proportion discontinuing PD was high, highlighting the need to optimize measures to improve retention rates, especially through prevention of peritonitis.

Reduction of peritoneal dialysis associated infections using a novel exit-site care practice

INTRODUCTION

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) related infections are a significant obstacle leading to PD discontinuation. Since catheter related infections (CRI), defined as exit site infections and/or tunnel infection, can progress to peritonitis, vigorous efforts are implemented in CRI prevention. Following an increased CRI rate in our institution, partially related to environmental organisms found in water distribution systems, we hypothesized that exit site care that includes prevention of water exposure-related pathogens may reduce CRI.

METHODS

In this prospective single center study, we compared a contemporary cohort consisting of PD patients who implemented the modified exit-site care protocol, mainly including water avoidance during shower with stoma bag usage and local Mupirocin ointment against a historical control group before the protocol implementation. The historical cohort was allowed water exposure and used local gentamicin ointment. The primary outcome was the development of a CRI. Secondary outcomes were PD associated peritonitis and infection related outcomes.

RESULTS

There were 55 patients in contemporary cohort and 58 in historical group. The CRI rate was significantly lower in study group (0.11/episodes per patient year [EPP]) compared to control group (0.71 EPP), p < 0.001. A multivariate Cox regression analysis demonstrated a protective effect of being in the contemporary cohort compared to historical group (HR for first CRI = 12.0 95%CI: 4.0-35.7, p < 0.001). Peritonitis rate was significantly lower in contemporary cohort (0.19/EPP) compared to the historical group (0.40/EPP), p = 0.011. Transfer to hemodialysis was significantly lower in contemporary cohort than historical group (7.3% vs 31.0% in contemporary and historical group respectively, HR = 0.2, 95%CI; 0.05-0.6, p = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

An exit site care protocol that includes water avoidance and local Mupirocin use reduced substantially both CRI and peritonitis rate in patients treated with PD.

Rationale and design of ELIXIR, a randomized, controlled trial to evaluate efficacy and safety of XyloCore, a glucose-sparing solution for peritoneal dialysis

Peritoneal dialysis adoption and technique survival is affected by limitations related to peritoneal membrane longevity and metabolic alterations. Indeed, almost all peritoneal dialysis fluids exploit glucose as an osmotic agent that rapidly diffuses across the peritoneal membrane, potentially resulting in metabolic abnormalities such as hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, obesity, and hyperlipidemia. Moreover, glucose-degradation products generated during heat sterilization, other than glucose itself, induce significant morphological and functional changes in the peritoneum leading to ultrafiltration failure. The partial substitution of glucose with osmotic agents characterized by a better local and systemic biocompatibility has been suggested as a potential strategy to innovate peritoneal dialysis fluids. The approach aims to minimize glucose-associated toxicity, preserving the peritoneal membrane welfare and counteracting common comorbidities. In this work, we report the clinical trial design of ELIXIR, a phase III randomized, controlled, blinded outcome assessment study comparing Xylocore®, an innovative formulation based on Xylitol and l-carnitine, to standard glucose-based regimens, in end-stage kidney disease patients treated with continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis; 170 patients will be randomized (1:1) to receive XyloCore® or to continue their pre-randomization peritoneal dialysis (PD) therapy with glucose-only PD solutions, for 6 months. The primary study's objective is to demonstrate the noninferiority of XyloCore® in terms of Kt/V urea, for which a clinically acceptable noninferiority margin of -0.25 has been determined, assuming that all patients will be treated aiming to a minimum target of 1.7 and an optimal target of 2.0.

Infective Endocarditis in Patients with End-Stage Renal Disease on Dialysis: Epidemiology, Risk Factors, Diagnostic Challenges, and Management Approaches

Infective endocarditis (IE) poses a significant clinical challenge, especially among patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) undergoing dialysis, and is associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. This review provides a contemporary discussion of the epidemiology, risk factors, diagnostic challenges, and management strategies for IE among ESRD patients, including a literature review of recent studies focused on this vulnerable population. The review highlights the multifactorial nature of IE risk in ESRD patients, emphasizing the roles of vascular access type, dialysis modality, and comorbid conditions. It also explores the diagnostic utility of different imaging modalities and the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in managing IE, including both medical and surgical interventions. The insights from this review aim to contribute to the improvement of patient outcomes through early recognition, appropriate antimicrobial therapy, and timely surgical intervention when necessary.

Effect of a Management Algorithm for Wet Contamination of Peritoneal Dialysis System on the Prevention of Peritonitis: A Prospective Observational Study

Introduction

Wet contamination was a common problem of peritoneal dialysis (PD) system. We developed a management algorithm for wet contamination of PD system (wet contamination) on the basis of the related research literature and clinical practice experience. The purpose of this study was to observe clinical effect of the management algorithm on the prevention of peritonitis.

Methods

Patients treated wet contamination in a single PD center between October 2017 and September 2022 were included. A management algorithm was established to treat wet contamination. It comprised identification of the contamination type, addressing contaminated or aging catheters, prophylactic antibiotics, and retraining. Demographic data and clinical data about wet contamination were collected and compared.

Results

One hundred and forty-one cases of wet contamination were included in this study. The mean age was 51.7 ± 14.1 years, and 49.6% were female. The proportion of diabetic nephropathy was 9.9%. The median PD duration was 27.0 (1.7-79.7) months. Eighteen episodes (12.8%) of wet contamination-associated peritonitis developed after wet contamination. The main pathogenic bacteria of peritonitis were Gram-positive bacteria (33.3%) and Gram-negative bacteria (27.8%). The incidence of wet contamination-associated peritonitis in the compliance with the management algorithm group was significantly lower than that in the non-compliance with the management algorithm group (0.9 vs. 48.6%; p < 0.001). Non-compliance with management algorithm (OR = 185.861, p < 0.001) together with advance age (OR = 1.116, p < 0.001) and longer distance from home to hospital (OR = 1.007, p < 0.001) were independent risk factors for wet contamination-associated peritonitis.

Conclusion

The management algorithm for wet contamination of PD system could reduce the risk of peritonitis.

Expression and significance of SIRT6 in human peritoneal dialysis effluents and peritoneal mesothelial cells

Sirtuin 6 (SIRT6) can inhibit the fibrosis of many organs. However, the relationship between SIRT6 and peritoneal fibrosis (PF) in peritoneal dialysis (PD) remains unclear. We collected 110 PD patients with a duration of PD for more than 3 months and studied the influence of PD duration and history of peritonitis on SIRT6 levels in PD effluents (PDEs). We also analyzed the relationship between SIRT6 levels in PDEs and transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1), IL-6, PD duration, peritoneal function, PD ultrafiltration (UF), and glucose exposure. We extracted human peritoneal mesothelial cells (HPMCs) from PDEs and measured the protein and gene expression levels of SIRT6, E-cadherin, vimentin, and TGF-β1 in these cells. Based on the clinical results, we used human peritoneal mesothelial cells lines (HMrSV5) to observe the changes in SIRT6 levels and mesothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (MMT) after intervention with PD fluid. By overexpressing and knocking down SIRT6 expression, we investigated the effect of SIRT6 expression on E-cadherin, vimentin, and TGF-β1 expression to elucidate the role of SIRT6 in mesothelial-to-epithelial transition in PMCs. Results: (1) With the extension of PD duration, the influence of infection on SIRT6 levels in PDEs increased. Patients with the PD duration of more than 5 years and a history of peritonitis had the lowest SIRT6 levels. (2) SIRT6 levels in PDEs were negatively correlated with PD duration, total glucose exposure, TGF-β1, IL-6 levels, and the dialysate-to-plasma ratio of creatinine (Cr4hD/P), but positively correlated with UF. This indicates that SIRT6 has a protective effect on the peritoneum. (3) The short-term group (PD ≤ 1 year) had higher SIRT6 and E-cadherin gene and protein levels than the mid-term group (1 year < PD ≤ 5 years) and long-term group (PD > 5 years) in PMCs, while vimentin and TGF-β1 levels were lower in the mid-term group and long-term group. Patients with a history of peritonitis had lower SIRT6 and E-cadherin levels than those without such a history. (4) After 4.25% PD fluid intervention for HPMCs, longer intervention time resulted in lower SIRT6 levels. (5) Overexpressing SIRT6 can lead to increased E-cadherin expression and decreased vimentin and TGF-β1 expression in HPMCs. Knocking down SIRT6 expression resulted in decreased E-cadherin expression and increased vimentin and TGF-β1 expression in HPMCs. This indicates that SIRT6 expression can inhibit MMT in HPMCs, alleviate PF associated with PD, and have a protective effect on the peritoneum.

Peritoneal dialysis in Herzegovina, Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina: 18 years of experience from our center

INTRODUCTION

Due to treatment of end-stage-renal-disease (ESRD), continuous peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) is used in 11% of cases and is associated with several PD-associated infections.

METHODS

Clinical data on 71 patients with CAPD were evaluated in addition to exit site infections and episodes of acute peritonitis (AP).

RESULTS

There were 39 men and 32 women. Average age was 61 years when we began CAPD and average time spent on CAPD program was 3.35 years. Illness that dominantly caused ESRD was diabetes (23 patients). Exit site infection was mostly caused by S epidermidis-MRSE and AP was most commonly caused by Staphylococcus sp. group. Most common cause of death was cardiovascular disease. At the end of this study, 9 patients were alive and still on CAPD, 10 were transplanted, 15 switched to HD and 36 died.

CONCLUSION

Optimal prevention measures and treatment of infectious complications in CAPD is necessary for better treatment possibilities.

Upward-directed exit-site of the swan-neck catheter and "Easy-to-disinfect the backside area of exit-site" may prevent PD complications

BACKGROUND

Upward-directed exit-site has been believed to be the worst for frequent ESI by an old retrospective study using straight catheters. No comparison study of 3 exit-site directions using swan-neck catheter has been performed regarding which direction is the best for our endpoints, Easy-to-see the backside area of exit-site: ESBE, Easy-to-disinfect the backside area of exit-site: EDBE, reduction of both exit-site infection (ESI), symptomatic catheter dislocation and peritonitis.

METHODS

We assessed the relationship of exit-site direction with our endpoints in a quantitative cross-sectional, multicentered questionnaire survey. Patients who received either non-surgical catheter implantation or exit-site surgery were excluded.

RESULTS

The numbers (percentage) of exit-site directions in included 291 patients were upward 79 (26.0), lateralward 108 (37.5) and downward 105 (36.5). Cochran-Armitage analysis showed a significant step-ladder increase in the prevalence of ESI as the direction changed from upward to lateralward to downward (0.15 ± 0.41, 0.25 ± 0.54, 0.38 ± 0.69 episodes/patient-year, p = 0.03). Multivariable regression analysis revealed the upward exit-site independently associates with both higher frequency of ESBE (OR 5.55, 95% CI 2.23-16.45, p < 0.01) and reduction of prevalence of ESI (OR 0.55, 95%CI 0.27-0.98, p = 0.04). Positive association between the prevalence of symptomatic catheter dislocation and ESI (OR 2.84, 95% CI 1.27-7.82, p = 0.01), and inverse association between EDBE and either prevalence of symptomatic catheter dislocation (OR 0.27, 95% CI 0.11-0.72) or peritonitis (OR 0.48, 95% CI 0.23-0.99) observed.

CONCLUSION

Upward-directed swan-neck catheter exit-site may be the best for both ESBE and prevention of ESI. EDBE may reduce catheter dislocation and peritonitis. Symptomatic catheter dislocation may predict ESI.

Diagnostic Accuracy of MMP-8 and IL-6-Based Point-of-Care Testing to Detect Peritoneal Dialysis-Related Peritonitis: A Single-Center Experience

BACKGROUND

Peritoneal dialysis-related peritonitis (PDRP) is the most common complication of peritoneal dialysis (PD), which can lead to poor outcomes if not diagnosed and treated early. We aimed to investigate the diagnostic accuracy of MMP-8 and IL-6-based point-of-care tests (POCTs) in diagnosing PDRP in PD patients.

METHODS

This retrospective chart review study was conducted at a comprehensive kidney center in Qatar. It involved all adult PD patients who underwent PDRP from July 2018 to October 2019 and for whom MMP-8 and IL-6-based POCTs were used to diagnose presumptive peritonitis. Measures of diagnostic accuracy were computed. Peritoneal fluid effluent analysis was the reference standard.

RESULTS

We included 120 patients (68 [56.7%] females, ages 55.6 ± 15.6 years, treatment duration 39.5 ± 30.4 months [range: 5-142 months]). In this population, MMP-8 and IL-6-based POCTs yielded 100% in all dimensions of diagnostic accuracy (sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values).

CONCLUSIONS

MMP-8 and IL-6-based POCTs might be helpful in the early detection of PDRP. This monocentric observation requires further confirmation in a prospective multicentric setting.

Peritoneal Dialysis-Related Infections

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) represents an important treatment choice for patients with kidney failure. It allows them to dialyze outside the hospital setting, facilitating enhanced opportunities to participate in life-related activities, flexibility in schedules, time and cost savings from reduced travel to dialysis centers, and improved quality of life. Despite its numerous advantages, PD utilization has been static or diminishing in parts of the world. PD-related infection, such as peritonitis, exit-site infection, or tunnel infection, is a major concern for patients, caregivers, and health professionals-which may result in hesitation to consider this as treatment or to cease therapy when these complications take place. In this review, the definition, epidemiology, risk factors, prevention, and treatment of PD-related infection on the basis of the contemporary evidence will be described.

Pathogenic spectrum and risk factors of peritoneal dialysis-associated peritonitis: a single-center retrospective study

The present study aimed to explore the pathogenic spectrum and risk factors of peritoneal dialysis-associated peritonitis (Peritoneal dialysis associated peritonitis, PDAP) in Yongzhou, Hunan, China. The clinical and epidemiological data on regular peritoneal dialysis (Peritoneal dialysis, PD) between January 2016 and December 2020 in Yongzhou were collected for retrospective analysis. The related factors of peritonitis were evaluated by single-factor analysis, while risk factors of refractory PDAP were evaluated by multivariate logistic regression analysis.172/331 172 (51.9%) patients developed peritonitis. The risk factors of PDAP in PD patients included high C-reactive protein (C-reactive protein, CRP), low albumin(Albumin, ALB), low hemoglobin (Hemoglobin, Hb), low educational level (junior high school or lower), preference of spicy food, irregular diet, low annual household income, unfavorable fluid exchange conditions, unstable employment (including working as a farmer), and unfavorable humidity conditions (P < 0.05). 63/172 (36.6%) PDAP patients were intractable cases with a pathogenic bacteria positive rate of 74.60% in the peritoneal dialysate cultures, and 109/172 patients were non-intractable cases with a pathogenic bacteria positive rate of 53.21%. Gram-positive bacteria (G+) were detected in most of the dialysate cultures, with Staphylococcus epidermidis (S. epidermidis) as the most common type, while Escherichia coli (E. coli) was the most common Gram-negative bacteria (G-). Gram-positive bacteria were sensitive to vancomycin and linezolid, while G- bacteria were sensitive to imipenem and amikacin. Lifestyle, educational level, and environmental factors are the major contributors to PDAP in PD patients. Fungal and multi-bacterial infections are the major causes of death; PD is stopped for such patients.

A Prospective Clinical Study to EvaluAte the AbiliTy of the CloudCath System to Detect Peritonitis During In-Home Peritoneal Dialysis (CATCH)

Introduction

Peritonitis is the leading complication of peritoneal dialysis (PD). Patients are instructed to seek care promptly for signs (cloudy effluent) or symptoms (abdominal pain), and earlier treatment improves outcomes. The CloudCath Peritoneal Dialysis Drain Set Monitoring (CloudCath) system monitors turbidity in dialysis effluent and sends notifications of changes signaling possible peritonitis.

Methods

We conducted this single-arm, open-label, multicenter study of CloudCath system use during PD. We deactivated system notifications to participants and investigators, who followed standard-of-care for peritonitis signs and symptoms. Effectiveness endpoints measured time between CloudCath system notifications and peritonitis events using International Society of Peritoneal Dialysis (ISPD) criteria.

Results

Two hundred forty-three participants used the CloudCath system for 178.8 patient-years. Of 71 potential peritonitis events, 51 events (0.29 per patient-year) met ISPD white blood cell (WBC) count criteria. The system triggered notifications for 41 of 51 events (80.4%), with a median lead time of 2.6 days (10%-90% range, -1.0 to 15.7; P < 0.0001). Excluding 6 peritonitis events that occurred when the system was not in use, the system triggered notifications for 41 of 45 events (91.1%), with a median lead time of 3.0 days (10%-90% range, -0.5 to 18.8; P < 0.0001). Of the 0.78 notifications per patient-year, the majority were peritonitis events or nonperitonitis events such as exit site and tunnel infections or catheter/cycler issues.

Conclusion

The CloudCath system detected peritonitis events during PD several days earlier than the current standard-of-care and has the capacity to send notifications that could expedite peritonitis diagnosis and treatment.

From Polymeric Nanoformulations to Polyphenols-Strategies for Enhancing the Efficacy and Drug Delivery of Gentamicin

Gentamicin is an essential broad-spectrum aminoglycoside antibiotic that is used in over 40 clinical conditions and has shown activity against a wide range of nosocomial, biofilm-forming, multi-drug resistant bacteria. Nevertheless, the low cellular penetration and serious side effects of gentamicin, as well as the fear of the development of antibacterial resistance, has led to a search for ways to circumvent these obstacles. This review provides an overview of the chemical and pharmacological properties of gentamicin and offers six different strategies (the isolation of specific types of gentamicin, encapsulation in polymeric nanoparticles, hydrophobization of the gentamicin molecule, and combinations of gentamicin with other antibiotics, polyphenols, and natural products) that aim to enhance the drug delivery and antibacterial activity of gentamicin. In addition, factors influencing the synthesis of gentamicin-loaded polymeric (poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) and chitosan) nanoparticles and the methods used in drug release studies are discussed. Potential research directions and future perspectives for gentamicin-loaded drug delivery systems are given.

The association between new inflammation markers and frequent peritoneal dialysis-associated peritonitis

OBJECTIVE

To validate an association between new inflammation and frequent peritoneal dialysis-associated peritonitis (PDAP).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In China, retrospective clinical data were collected on 208 patients who received continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) between 2010 and 2021. The patients were divided into two groups: non-frequent PDAP (the interval between two peritonitis episodes of more than one year) and frequent PDAP (the interval between two peritonitis episodes of less than one year). Patients with their first episode of peritonitis had their age, gender, history of hypertension, diabetic disease, underlying renal disease, bacterial infection, and laboratory data collected. The outcomes of bacterial dispersion, systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), C-reactive protein (CRP), and risk variables associated with frequent PDAP were analyzed.

RESULTS

There are differences between the two groups in dialysis time (p = 0.006), hypertensive nephropathy (p = 0.038), staphylococcus (p = 0.035), white blood cells (p = 0.001), neutrophil (p < 0.01), lymphocyte (p < 0.01), platelet(p = 0.01), SII(p < 0.01), CRP/HDL-C (p = 0.002), CRP (p < 0.001), serum creatinine (p = 0.007), blood urea nitrogen (p = 0.05), serum magnesium (0.03), serum potassium (p = 0.007), and dialysate polymorphonuclear cells (p = 0.004). Multifactorial logistic regression analysis found that SII (p < 0.001), CRP/HDL-C (p = 0.041), and Diabetes mellitus (p = 0.027) were independent risk factors for frequent PDAP. The ROC curve analysis revealed that combining SII with CRP/HDL-C resulted in the largest AUC area (AUC = 0.814).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings offer clinical proof of the combination of SII and CRP/HDL-C in patients with frequent PDAP.

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.

Peritoneal Dialysis-associated Peritonitis Due to Streptococcus oralis Three Weeks after Peritoneal Dialysis Initiation

A 60-year-old man with end-stage renal disease due to nephrosclerosis had a peritoneal dialysis catheter (PD) embedded with stepwise initiation of peritoneal dialysis using Moncrief and Popovich's technique three months ago. PD was initiated three weeks after creating an exit site. He presented with abdominal pain and fever a day before admission and was diagnosed with PD-associated peritonitis caused by Streptococcus oralis. Medical consultation after admission revealed a history of wisdom tooth extraction following PD catheter placement, resulting in delayed wound healing. Transient bacteremia can occur after tooth extraction, leading to PD-associated peritonitis. Contemplating the oral milieu in patients undergoing PD is pertinent.

Evolution of Peritoneal Dialysis-Associated Peritonitis: Pathogen, Antibiotic Resistance, and the Impact of Lymphocyte Count on Treatment Outcomes

Purpose

Antibiotic administration leads to alterations in pathogenic organisms and antibiotic resistance, posing a significant risk to peritoneal dialysis patients' health. This study aimed to investigate changes in the cause-specific peritonitis, pathogen profiles, antibiotic resistance, and the prognostic factors among patients with peritoneal dialysis-associated peritonitis (PDAP) at our center.

Patients and Methods

We included 463 PDAP patients who attended Peking University Shenzhen Hospital between 2002 and 2023. We analyzed the effects of empirical treatment regimens with cefazolin and ceftazidime or gentamicin.

Results

From 2002 to 2023, we observed that gram-positive staphylococci emerged as the primary causative agents, while the proportion of gram-negative bacillary, enteric peritonitis, and catheter-associated peritonitis decreased significantly. However, the overall cure rate for PDAP and gram-negative bacillary peritonitis declined significantly from 2014 to 2023. Notably, we observed no increase in antibiotic resistance associated with antibiotic drugs use. In addition, reduced lymphocyte counts due to the prevalence of 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) emerged as an independent risk factor for treatment failure in cases of gram-negative bacillary peritonitis.

Conclusion

We did not observe elevated antibiotic resistance in our center when employing empirical dosing strategies involving cefazolin, ceftazidime, or gentamicin. Additionally, we found that a decrease in lymphocyte count due to the COVID-19 epidemic was a significant risk factor for treatment failure in cases of gram-negative bacillary peritonitis at our center. This study provides a foundation for developing clinical treatment strategies for PDAP.

Prognosis of urgent initiation of peritoneal dialysis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

Currently, there is no consensus on the optimal timing for the initiation of peritoneal dialysis (PD) after catheter placement.

DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

EXACT DATE OF DATA COLLECTION

From inception till July 31, 2023.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

To assess the outcomes and safety of unplanned PD initiation (<14/7 days after catheter insertion) in cohort studies.

RESULTS

Fifteen studies involving 3054 participants were included. (1) The risk of unplanned initiation of leakage and Obstruction was no difference in both the break-in period (BI) <14 and BI < 7 groups. (2) Catheter displacement was more likely to occur in the emergency initiation group with BI < 7. (3) No significant differences were observed between the two groups regarding infectious complications. (4) There was no difference in transition to HD between patients with BI < 7 and BI < 14 d.

CONCLUSION

Infectious complications of unplanned initiation of peritoneal dialysis did not differ from planned initiation. Emergency initiation in the BI < 7 group had higher catheter displacement, but heterogeneity was higher. There were no differences in leakage or obstruction in either group. Catheter survival was the same for emergency initiation of peritoneal dialysis compared with planned initiation of peritoneal dialysis and did not increase the risk of conversion to hemodialysis.

REGISTRATION

This meta-analysis was registered on PROSPERO (https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, number: CRD42023431369).

Rapid and Effective Treatment of Peritonitis in Peritoneal Dialysis Patients with Intravenous Dalbavancin

BACKGROUND Peritonitis is a complication associated with peritoneal dialysis (PD), which carries a significant morbidity and mortality risk. Empiric therapy must include coverage of gram-positive organisms; vancomycin is a recommended treatment option, particularly when MRSA infection is a risk. Vancomycin is cumbersome for patients, requiring therapeutic drug monitoring and re-administration by a healthcare provider. Dalbavancin, administered as a one-time intravenous dose, is a convenient potential treatment option for PD patients to cover gram-positive organisms without the need for routine drug monitoring. CASE REPORT We present 2 patients effectively treated with dalbavancin for infectious peritonitis. The first patient, a 73-year-old woman with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) on PD, presented to the hospital with fever, elevated white blood cells (WBCs), and cloudy peritoneal fluid with elevated nucleated cell counts (88% neutrophils). This patient was given 1 dose of 1500 mg IV dalbavancin. Within 3 days, her fever resolved, WBCs returned to normal, and peritoneal fluid results improved. The second patient was a 36-year-old woman presenting to an outpatient clinic with abdominal pain and cloudy peritoneal fluid with elevated nucleated cell counts (53% neutrophils) treated with dalbavancin 1500 mg IV once. Within 4 days, this patient's pain had resolved, and peritoneal fluid results returned to baseline. No adverse effects were noted for either patient. CONCLUSIONS These cases illustrate the potential of dalbavancin as a convenient option for patients with PD-associated peritonitis. Both patients demonstrated rapid and complete response to a single dose of dalbavancin without complications. Further prospective studies are needed to establish dalbavancin as an option for peritonitis.

Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Peritoneal Dialysis (PD) in the Treatment of Neurological Disorders

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is a well-established renal replacement therapy commonly employed in clinical practice. While its primary application is in the treatment of kidney disease, its potential in addressing other systemic disorders, including neurological diseases, has garnered increasing interest. This study provides a comprehensive overview of the related technologies, unique advantages, and clinical applications of PD in the context of neurological disorders. By exploring the mechanism underlying PD, its application in neurological diseases, and associated complications, we addressed the feasibility and benefits of PD as an adjunct therapy for various neurological conditions. Our study aims to highlight its role in detoxification and symptom management, as well as its advantages over other universally accepted methods of renal replacement therapy. Our goal is to bring to the spotlight the therapeutic potential of PD in neurological diseases, such as stroke, stimulate further research, and broaden the scope of its application in the clinical setting.

The influence of different peritoneal dialysis techniques on wound infection in patients with peritoneal dialysis tube

More and more research has started to investigate the effect of peritoneal dialysis treatment on the incidence of pericatheter wound complications in chronic kidney disease (CKD). This meta-study evaluated the effect of emergency peritoneal dialysis (EPD) with conventional peritoneal dialysis (CPD) in patients with catheter-related complications. We looked up 4 databases: PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane, and Web of Science, and analysed the data with RevMan 5. There were a total of 15 studies with 3034 participants. While the quality of the research included was fairly good, the evidence was mediocre. In the meta-analyses, the risk of leak in the conduit with PD was very high (OR, 2.48; 95% CI, 1.72, 3.59, p < 0.00001). However, for those treated with urgent medical method prior to initiation of PD, the risk for peritonitis, catheter dysfunction and bleeding was similar compared with CPD. Based on limited information, immediate initiation of PDs is advised in order to increase the quality of life for people in urgent need, except if there is no consideration for loss of fluid. The low quality of the evidence is holding up the evidence. This research, however, is also informative because of the large number of available data. Consequently, additional high quality, large, randomized controlled studies are required to establish.

Oral vitamin D supplementation on the prevention of peritoneal dialysis-related peritonitis: A pilot randomised controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

Peritoneal dialysis (PD)-related peritonitis is independently associated with low serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D [25(OH)D] levels. Our objective is to examine the feasibility of conducting a large, randomised controlled trial to determine the effects of vitamin D supplementation on the risk of PD-related peritonitis.

DESIGN

Pilot, prospective, open-label randomised controlled trial.

SETTING

Peking University First Hospital, China.

PARTICIPANTS

Patients receiving PD who had recovered from a recent episode of peritonitis between 30 September 2017 and 28 May 2020.

INTERVENTIONS

Oral natural vitamin D supplementation (2000 IU per day) versus no vitamin D supplementation for 12 months.

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES

Primary outcomes were feasibility (recruitment success, retention, adherence, safety) and fidelity (change in serum 25(OH)D level during follow-up) for a large, randomised controlled trial in the future to determine the effects of vitamin D on PD-related peritonitis. Secondary outcomes were time to peritonitis occurrence and outcome of subsequent peritonitis.

RESULTS

Overall, 60 among 151 patients were recruited (recruitment rate was 39.7%, 95% CI 31.9-47.5%, recruitment rate among eligible patients was 61.9%, 95% CI 52.2-71.5%). Retention and adherence rates were 100.0% (95% CI 100.0-100.0%) and 81.5% (95% CI 66.8-96.1%), respectively. During follow-up, serum 25(OH)D levels increased in the vitamin D (VD) group (from 19.25 ± 10.11 nmol/L to 60.27 ± 23.29 nmol/L after 6 months, p < 0.001, n = 31), and remained higher (p < 0.001) than those in the control group (n = 29). No differences were observed between the two groups with respect to time to subsequent peritonitis (hazard ratio 0.85, 95% CI 0.33-2.17) or any of the peritonitis outcomes. Adverse events were uncommon.

CONCLUSIONS

A randomised controlled trial of the effect of vitamin D supplementation on peritonitis occurrence in patients receiving PD is feasible, safe and results in adequate serum 25(OH)D levels.

Peritoneal dialysis catheter insertion techniques by the nephrologist

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) catheter is the lifeline of PD patients, and despite the overall strength of the PD program in many countries, PD catheter survival remains the major weakness of the program. The prompt and effective implantation of the PD catheter, as well as speedy management of complications arising from catheter insertion, remains crucial for the success of the program.

Mortality prediction with adaptive feature importance recalibration for peritoneal dialysis patients

The study aims to develop AICare, an interpretable mortality prediction model, using electronic medical records (EMR) from follow-up visits for end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients. AICare includes a multichannel feature extraction module and an adaptive feature importance recalibration module. It integrates dynamic records and static features to perform personalized health context representation learning. The dataset encompasses 13,091 visits and demographic data of 656 peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients spanning 12 years. An additional public dataset of 4,789 visits from 1,363 hemodialysis (HD) patients is also considered. AICare outperforms traditional deep learning models in mortality prediction while retaining interpretability. It uncovers mortality-feature relationships and variations in feature importance and provides reference values. An AI-doctor interaction system is developed for visualizing patients' health trajectories and risk indicators.

Factors Influencing Telehealth Service Use and Health Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis: Cross-Sectional Study

BACKGROUND

Several studies have demonstrated the efficacy and user acceptance of telehealth in managing patients with chronic conditions, including continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). However, the rates of telehealth service use in various patient groups have been low and have declined over time, which may affect important health outcomes. Telehealth service use in patients undergoing CAPD has been recognized as a key challenge that needs to be examined further.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to explore the rates of telehealth service use over 4 months, identify factors influencing its use, and examine the relationship between telehealth service use and health outcomes in Thai people undergoing CAPD.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study, which was a part of a pragmatic randomized controlled trial study, was conducted at a dialysis center in Bangkok, Thailand. The study included patients who were undergoing CAPD. These patients were randomly enrolled in the intervention group to receive telehealth service and additional standard care for 4 months. Data were collected using self-reported questionnaires, including a demographic form, Functional, Communicative, and Critical Health Literacy Scale, Perceived Usefulness Questionnaire, Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire, Patient-Doctor Relationship Questionnaire, and Kidney Disease Quality of Life 36 Questionnaire. Additionally, Google Analytics was used to obtain data on the actual use of the telehealth service. These data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, repeated-measures ANOVA, and regression analyses.

RESULTS

A total of 159 patients were included in this study. The mean rate of telehealth service use throughout the period of 4 months was 62.06 (SD 49.71) times. The rate of telehealth service use was the highest in the first month (mean 23.48, SD 16.28 times) and the lowest in the third month (mean 11.09, SD 11.48 times). Independent variables explained 27.6% of the sample variances in telehealth service use. Older age (β=.221; P=.002), higher perceived usefulness (β=.414; P<.001), unemployment (β=-.155; P=.03), and positive illness perception (β=-.205; P=.004) were associated with a significantly higher rate of telehealth service use. Regarding the relationship between telehealth service use and health outcomes, higher rates of telehealth service use were linked to better quality of life (β=.241; P=.002) and lower peritonitis (odds ratio 0.980, 95% CI 0.962-0.997; P=.03).

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides valuable insights into factors impacting telehealth service use, which in turn affect health outcomes in patients undergoing CAPD.

Pharmacokinetic analysis of ceftazidime and cefazolin in the treatment of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis-related peritonitis

OBJECTIVE

Peritoneal dialysis-related peritonitis (PDRP) presents a significant challenge for nephrologists. Continuous intraperitoneal cefazolin and ceftazidime are recommended for the treatment of peritonitis. However, some pharmacokinetic studies have shown that doses of 15-20 mg/kg/d may not achieve sufficient therapeutic levels. In this study, we investigated the pharmacokinetics of ceftazidime and cefazolin in patients with continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis-related peritonitis and compared the pharmacokinetic characteristics between traditional and modified treatment groups.

METHODS

From February 2017 to December 2019, 42 PDRP patients (17 males, 25 females; mean age: 50.7 ± 12.1 years; mean body weight: 60.9 ± 11.8 kg) were recruited for the study, all participants were anuric. Twenty patients were enrolled in the traditional group and treated with cefazolin (1.0 g) and ceftazidime (1.0 g) via intraperitoneal administration once daily for 14 days. Twenty-two patients were enrolled in the modified group and received the same dose of antibiotics twice daily for the initial five days, followed by once daily for the subsequent nine days. Serum and dialysate samples were collected after days 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 10, and 14 and analyzed via liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry.

RESULTS

In the traditional group, the highest and lowest serum concentrations of ceftazidime were 35.9 and 21.7 µg/mL, respectively. The highest concentration of cefazolin was 54.6 µg/mL on day 5 and the lowest concentration was 30.4 µg/mL on day 1. In the modified group, the highest and lowest serum concentrations of ceftazidime were 102.2 and 54.8 µg/mL, respectively. The highest concentration of cefazolin was 141.7 µg/mL and the lowest concentration was 79.8 µg/mL. All antibiotic concentrations were above the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) level (8 µg/mL of ceftazidime and 2 µg/mL of cefazolin) throughout the treatment period. However, on day 1, the concentration of ceftazidime in the third bag of dialysate effluent from the traditional group fell below the MIC level. Despite remaining above the MIC, cefazolin concentration was consistently lower in the third bag of dialysate effluent from the traditional group throughout the treatment period.

CONCLUSIONS

Intraperitoneal administration of cefazolin and ceftazidime at a dose of 1 g twice daily for 5 days and then once daily for the rest of the treatment period ensured adequate therapeutic levels of antibiotics for treating anuric PDRP patients.

Pediatric peritoneal dialysis training program and its relationship to peritonitis: a study of the International Pediatric Peritoneal Dialysis Network

BACKGROUND

The guidelines for training of patients and caregivers to perform home peritoneal dialysis (PD) uniformly include recommendations pertaining to the prevention of peritonitis. The objective of this study conducted by the International Pediatric Peritoneal Dialysis Network (IPPN) was to investigate the training practices for pediatric PD and to evaluate the impact of these practices on the peritonitis and exit-site infection (ESI) rate.

METHODS

A questionnaire regarding details of the PD program and training practices was distributed to IPPN member centers, while peritonitis and ESI rates were either derived from the IPPN registry or obtained directly from the centers. Poisson univariate and multivariate regression was used to determine the training-related peritonitis and ESI risk factors.

RESULTS

Sixty-two of 137 centers responded. Information on peritonitis and ESI rates were available from fifty centers. Training was conducted by a PD nurse in 93.5% of centers, most commonly (50%) as an in-hospital program. The median total training time was 24 hours, with a formal assessment conducted in 88.7% and skills demonstration in 71% of centers. Home visits were performed by 58% of centers. Shorter (< 20 hours) training duration and lower number of training tools (both p < 0.02) were associated with higher peritonitis rate, after adjustment for proportion of treated infants and income of country of residence.

CONCLUSIONS

An association between training duration and the number of training tools represent potentially modifiable risk factors to reduce peritonitis rates within the pediatric PD population. A higher resolution version of the Graphical abstract is available as Supplementary information.

The Association Between Serum Vancomycin Level and Clinical Outcome in Patients With Peritoneal Dialysis Associated Peritonitis

Introduction

Intraperitoneal (IP) vancomycin is often first-line empiric therapy and then maintenance therapy for peritoneal dialysis (PD) peritonitis. However, how vancomycin serum levels correlate with clinical outcomes remains unclear.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective single-center adult cohort study of 98 patients with PD peritonitis treated with IP vancomycin between January 2016 and May 2022. The association between nadir vancomycin level and cure was evaluated in a logistic regression model, first unadjusted and then adjusted for age, sex, weight, glomerular filtration rate (GFR), and total number of days on PD. Vancomycin was assessed both as a continuous exposure (per 1 mg/l increase) and as a categorical exposure (<15 mg/l vs. ≥15 mg/l). A receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) was created to explore nadir vancomycin level thresholds in an attempt to identify an optimal target level during treatment.

Results

Of the patients, 81% achieved cure, and patients with nadir vancomycin level ≥15 mg/l were 7.5 times more likely to experience cure compared to those with a nadir level <15 mg/l (odds ratio [OR] 7.58, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.71-33.57, P = 0.008). Weight, GFR, days on PD, sex, and age were not independently associated with outcome. The vancomycin level with the greatest discriminatory capacity for cure on the ROC analysis was 14.4 mg/l.

Conclusion

Increasing IP vancomycin serum levels are associated with increased odds of cure; and maintaining vancomycin serum levels above 14-15 mg/l throughout the course of PD peritonitis treatment is likely to improve clinical outcomes.

Rescue plan for CAPD peritonitis: Using ultrasonography as a guide on when to remove the catheter

INTRODUCTION

Ultrasound has been found to facilitate early identification of peritonitis in patients undergoing continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD).

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was carried out to evaluate the effectiveness of ultrasonography-guided removal of the Tenckhoff catheter in reducing complications like a shift to hemodialysis or death in CAPD patients.

RESULTS

The "peritonitis rescue plan" supported timely decision-making for the removal of the infected catheter and resulted in a lower peritonitis episode per patient per month ratio (from 1:36 to 1:122) in 2021, a lower death rate (from 19% to 6.6%) and lower incidences of shifts to hemodialysis (from 2%-9% to 0%) as compared to that before the implementation of the plan in 2019.

CONCLUSION

The implementation of the "peritonitis rescue plan" and the removal of the infected catheter within 3 days of peritonitis being detected was successful in improving the standard of care for patients undergoing CAPD.

Effect of different dialysis duration on the prognosis of peritoneal dialysis-associated peritonitis: a single-center, retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Peritoneal dialysis (PD)-associated peritonitis is a serious complication observed in peritoneal dialysis patients. Herein, we investigated the clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes of PD peritonitis in patients with different PD durations.

METHODS

All peritonitis episodes from January 2007 to December 2020 at Peking University People's hospital PD center were retrospectively analyzed and divided into the long-dialysis duration (≥60 months, LDD) and short-dialysis duration (<60 months, SDD) groups. Clinical characteristics and outcomes were compared between these groups. The risk factors for treatment failure were analyzed using a logistic regression model.

RESULTS

During 14 years, 156 patients had 267 peritonitis episodes. There were 83 (31.1%) peritonitis episodes in the LDD group and 184 (68.9%) in the SDD group. No statistical difference was noted in peritonitis causes and the composition of causative pathogens between the two groups. The hospitalization, treatment failure, and transfer-to-hemodialysis rates, and peritonitis-related mortality were significantly higher in the LDD group than in the SDD group (all p < .05). Logistic regression analysis revealed that PD duration was an independent risk factor for PD-associated hospitalization, treatment failure and peritonitis-related death (p < .05). The receiver operating characteristic curve analysis results showed that when the cutoff value of PD duration was 5.5 years, the sensitivity of predicting PD peritonitis treatment failure was 51.1%, specificity was 78.8%, and the area under the curve was 0.679 (95% confidence interval: 0.594-0.765, p < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

PD duration is an independent risk factor for poor prognosis in PD peritonitis. Careful and active attention should be paid to the prevention of peritonitis in PD patients with long PD duration.

Tuberculous peritonitis in patients on peritoneal dialysis: a 35-year experience from a large medical center in Northern Taiwan

INTRODUCTION

Tuberculous peritonitis (TBP) is a rare but fatal complication in patients on peritoneal dialysis (PD). In this study, we aimed to determine the demographic features, clinical features, laboratory parameters, and clinical outcomes of PD patients with TBP and to clarify possible risk factors for mortality.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 2084 PD patients from January 1985 to December 2019. The diagnosis of TBP was established by positive peritoneal fluid culture for Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

RESULTS

18 patients were diagnosed with TBP. The incidence was 2.029 episodes per 1000 patient-years. The most common symptom was fever (94.4%), followed by cloudy effluent (83.3%) and abdominal pain (83.3%). The average peritoneal dialysis effluent (PDE) white blood cell (WBC) count was 172.7 cells/μL. Nine patients (50%) had WBC counts lower than 100 cells/μL and 13 patients (72.2%) had neutrophilic predominant WBC counts. Acid fast stain (AFS) was positive in 7 patients (38.9%). Only 2 patients (11.1%) continued with PD after TB infection, while 10 patients (55.6%) changed to hemodialysis. Seven patients (38.9%) died within 1 year. Significant differences were observed in sex (p = 0.040), the presence of diabetes mellitus (p = 0.024), and PD catheter removal (p < 0.001) between TBP patients with and without mortality. However, none of them was a significant factor for 1-year mortality in multivariate Cox regression model.

CONCLUSION

Physicians should pay attention to the unusual presentations of peritonitis, especially if symptoms include fever or an initial low PDE WBC count. Catheter removal is not mandatory if early diagnosis and appropriate therapy are available.

Retraining programme for older patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis: A randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Peritonitis is a common cause of hospitalisation and death among patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis. Periodic retraining is recommended to prevent peritonitis, especially in older adults.

OBJECTIVES

We evaluated the effectiveness of a retraining programme for reducing peritonitis and exit site infection rates in older adults on peritoneal dialysis. The cost-benefit ratio was also calculated.

DESIGN

A two-arm prospective randomised controlled trial.

PARTICIPANTS

One hundred and thirty patients aged 55 years or older were recruited. Participants were randomly assigned to the intervention or control group. While both groups received usual care, the intervention group received a retraining programme (a knowledge and practical assessment and a one-on-one retraining session) 90 days after starting home-based continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis therapy.

MEASUREMENTS

The outcomes included peritonitis rate, exit site infection rate and direct medical costs at 180, 270, and 360 days after starting home-based continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis therapy.

RESULTS

No significant differences were found in the baseline characteristics between groups. The peritonitis rates were 0.11 episodes per patient-year in the intervention group versus 0.13 in the control group. The incidence of exit site infection was 20.0% in the intervention group and 12.3% in the control group. The cost-benefit ratio of retraining was 1:9.6. None of the results were statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

The absence of statistical significance may be partly explained by the premature termination of the study. Large-scale multi-centre trials are warranted to examine the effectiveness of retraining. The timing and long-term effects of retraining also need to be examined.

Technique failure in peritoneal dialysis-related peritonitis: risk factors and patient survival

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the association between patient clinical characteristics and technique failure in peritoneal dialysis-related peritonitis (PDRP). The effect of peritonitis-associated technique failure on patient survival was also assessed.

METHODS

Patients diagnosed with PDRP from January 1, 2010 to June 30, 2022 were retrospectively reviewed and analyzed. Relevant demographic, biochemical, and clinical data were collected. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to determine the predictors of peritonitis-associated technique failure in PD. Patients were divided into technique failure (F group) and nontechnique failure (NF group) groups. Patients were followed until death or until the date of Oct 1, 2022. Kaplan-Meier survival curves and landmark analysis were used to assess the survival of the PDRP cohort. Cox regression models were used to assess the association between potential risk factors and mortality.

RESULTS

A total of 376 patients with 648 cases of PDRP were included in this study. Multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated that peritoneal dialysis (PD) duration (OR = 1.12 [1.03, 1.21], p = 0.005), dialysate WBC count on Day 3 after antibiotic therapy (OR = 1.41 [1.22, 1.64], p = 0.001), blood neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) (OR = 1.83 [1.25, 2.70], p = 0.002), and serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) (OR = 4.13 [1.69, 10.11], p = 0.002) were independent predictors for technique failure in PDRP. Furthermore, serum high-density lipoprotein (HDL) (OR = 0.28 [0.13, 0.64], p = 0.002) was a protective factor against technique failure. According to the Kaplan-Meier analysis, patients experiencing peritonitis-associated technique failure had lower postperitonitis survival (log-rank = 4.326, p = 0.038). According to the landmark analysis, patients with a history of peritonitis-associated technical failures had a higher 8-year mortality after peritoneal dialysis. A Cox model adjusted for plausible predetermined confounders showed that technique failure was independently associated with all-cause mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Dialysate WBC count on Day 3, PD duration, NLR, and LDH were independent risk factors for technique failure, whereas HDL was a protective factor. Peritonitis-associated technique failure had a higher risk of mortality and adverse effects on postperitonitis survival.

Clinical profile and microbiological spectrum of patients with continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis-associated peritonitis at a tertiary care center

Background

We present risk factors, clinical profile, and microbiological spectrum of patients with continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD)-associated peritonitis who were managed at our center.

Methods

All consecutive patients with CAPD-associated peritonitis who presented to our center between July 2018 and December 2019 were included in the study. Risk factors, microbiological spectrum, clinical profile, and outcome of patients were studied.

Results

Eighty-five patients with CAPD-associated peritonitis and 50 patients who never had peritonitis during the study period were included. Diabetes Mellitus (OR 0.058, 95% CI0.007-0.493, p < 0.05), residence in rural area (OR 3.376, 95% CI 1.084-10.516, p < 0.05), duration of peritoneal dialysis (OR 0.935, 95% CI 0.886-0.987, p < 0.05), mean serum hemoglobin (OR 1.674, 95% CI 1.119-2.502, p < 0.05) and serum albumin (OR 0.148, 95% CI 0.066-0.333, p < 0.05) were associated with higher risk of peritonitis in CAPD patients. Eight-three patients (98.8%) had turbid CAPD fluid and 52 (61.2%) had fever at the time of presentation to the hospital. The mean CAPD fluid TLC on day 1, 3, and 5 were 2034.3 ± 3330.1 cells/cumm, 1049.0 ± 1210.9 cells/cumm, and 605.2 ± 950.5 cells/cumm, respectively. The organisms isolated were two Escherichia coli (2.4%), one Staphylococcus aureus (1.2%), one Klebsiella (1.2%), two Acinetobacter (2.4%), 10 Fungal organisms (11.7%), and in two (2.4%) cases, Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) was detected by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of CAPD fluid. Thirty-seven (43.5%) patients had a complete cure and 48 (56.5%) patients were refractory to treatment; hence catheter was removed in them (catheter loss). Six (7.0%) patients died during the study period.

Conclusion

CAPD-associated peritonitis is an important risk factor for technique failure. The majority of episodes are culture-negative, and PCR can help in detecting fungal and tubercular peritonitis early in the course.

Neutrophil Gelatinase-Associated Lipocalin in Peritoneal Dialysis-Related Peritonitis: Correlation with White Blood Cells over Time and a Possible Role as the Outcome Predictor

INTRODUCTION

The present study aimed to monitor peritoneal neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (pNGAL) during peritonitis episodes and to enhance its diagnostic value by evaluating pNGAL at scheduled times in parallel with white blood cell (WBC) count. In addition, we investigated possible correlations between pNGAL and the etiology of peritonitis, evaluating it as a possible marker of the clinical outcome.

METHODS

Twenty-two patients with peritoneal dialysis (PD)-related peritonitis were enrolled. Peritonitis was divided into Gram-positive, Gram-negative, polymicrobial, and sterile. WBC count and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) in PD effluent were measured at different times (days 0, 1, 5, 10, 15, and/or 20 and 10 days after antibiotic therapy discontinuation). NGAL was measured by standard quantitative laboratory-based immunoassay and by colorimetric NGAL dipstick (NGALds) (dipstick test).

RESULTS

We found strong correlations between peritoneal WBC, laboratory-based NGAL, and NGALds values, both overall and separated at each time point. On day 1, we observed no significant difference in WBC, both NGALds (p = 0.3, 0.9, and 0.2) between Gram-positive, Gram-negative, polymicrobial, and sterile peritonitis. No significant difference has been found between de novo versus relapsing peritonitis for all markers (p > 0.05). We observed a parallel decrease of WBC and both NGAL in patients with favorable outcomes. WBC count and both pNGAL resulted higher in patients with negative outcomes (defined as relapsing peritonitis, peritonitis-associated catheter removal, peritonitis-associated hemodialysis transfer, peritonitis-associated death) at day 10 (p = 0.04, p = 0.03, and p = 0.05, respectively) and day 15 (p = 0.01, p = 0.04, and tendency for p = 0.005). There was a tendency toward higher levels of WBC and NGAL in patients with a negative outcome at day 5. No significant difference in all parameters was proven at day 1 (p = 0.3, p = 0.9, p = 0.2) between groups.

CONCLUSION

This study confirms pNGAL as a valid and reliable biomarker for the diagnosis of PD-peritonitis and its monitoring. Its trend is parallel to WBC count during peritonitis episodes, in particular, patients with unfavorable outcomes.

Comparison of clinical outcomes between culture-negative and positive peritonitis in patients undergoing maintenance peritoneal dialysis: a prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Culture-negative peritonitis is a serious complication in patients undergoing maintenance peritoneal dialysis (PD) and occurs in up to 40% of all peritonitis episodes. Despite its high incidence, data regarding treatment response and prognosis remain poorly defined. This study compared the clinical outcomes of patients with culture-negative and positive peritonitis.

METHOD

This prospective cohort study was conducted between 2021 and 2022. Patients treated with maintenance PD who developed PD-associated peritonitis were included and received standard treatment. The primary endpoint was the primary response (resolution of peritonitis 10 days after the initiation of treatment).

RESULTS

Of the 81 patients who developed PD-associated peritonitis during the study, 35 and 46 had culture-negative and culture-positive peritonitis, respectively. Overall, 52 (64.2%) patients achieved the primary response: 24 (68.6%) in the culture-negative group and 28 (60.9%) in the culture-positive group (p = 0.630). There were no significant differences between the two groups in the incidence of complete cure (complete resolution of peritonitis without the need for Tenckhoff catheter removal or salvage antibiotic therapy or peritonitis within 120 days after treatment) (culture-negative vs. culture-positive group, 57.1% vs. 45.7%), refractory peritonitis (28.6% vs. 41.3%), relapse peritonitis (8.6% vs. 2.2%), repeat peritonitis (11.4% vs. 10.9%), salvage antibiotics (40.0% vs. 50.0%), permanent hemodialysis transfer (11.4% vs. 10.9%), Tenckhoff catheter removal (25.7% vs. 41.3%), or mortality (2.9% vs. 2.2%) (all p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

This study offers valuable insights into the clinical outcomes of culture-negative peritonitis versus culture-positive peritonitis. However, caution must be exercised in interpreting these findings due to the limitations of the small sample size.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

The study was retrospectively registered in the Thai Clinical Trials Registry (TCTR20221130006).

A multi-institutional, observational study of outcomes after catheter placement for peritoneal dialysis in Japan

BACKGROUND

This multi-institutional, observational study examined whether the outcomes after peritoneal dialysis (PD) catheter placement in Japan meet the audit criteria of the International Society for Peritoneal Dialysis (ISPD) guideline and identified factors affecting technique survival and perioperative complications.

METHODS

Adult patients who underwent first PD catheter placement for end-stage kidney disease between April 2019 and March 2021 were followed until PD withdrawal, kidney transplantation, transfer to other facilities, death, 1 year after PD start or March 2022, whichever came first. Primary outcomes were time to catheter patency failure and technique failure, and perioperative infectious complications within 30 days of catheter placement. Secondary outcomes were perioperative complications. Appropriate statistical analyses were performed to identify factors associated with the outcomes of interest.

RESULTS

Of the total 409 patients, 8 who underwent the embedded catheter technique did not have externalised catheters. Of the 401 remaining patients, catheter patency failure occurred in 25 (6.2%). Technical failure at 12 months after PD catheter placement calculated from cumulative incidence function was 15.3%. On Cox proportional hazards model analysis, serum albumin (hazard ratio (HR) 0.44; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.27-0.70) and straight type catheter (HR 2.14; 95% CI 1.24-3.69) were the independent risk factors for technique failure. On logistic regression analysis, diabetes mellitus was the only independent risk factor for perioperative infectious complications (odds ratio 2.70, 95% CI 1.30-5.58). The occurrence rate of perioperative complications generally met the audit criteria of the ISPD guidelines.

CONCLUSION

PD catheter placement in Japan was proven to be safe and appropriate.

Complications mécaniques de la dialyse péritonéale chez l’enfant tunisien

INTRODUCTION

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is the method of choice for extra-renal replacement therapy (ERT) for children with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), because of its various advantages. However, it presents different infectious and non-infectious complications, causes of important morbidity and mortality.

AIM

To determine the mechanical complications of PD in our center and to identify risk factors of their occurrence.

METHODS

We retrospectively collected the records of 99 patients who were treated with PD within the past eleven years in the department of pediatrics of the University Hospital Charles Nicolle of Tunis. Analysis examining possible risque factors were performed using parametric and non-parametric tests.

RESULTS

A total of 63 patients had mechanical complications with an incidence of peritoneal dialysis catheter revision of 1 procedure every 38 months. The causes were dominated by catheter migration (27.5%) and obstruction by fibrin or blood clotting (19.8%). A history of peritonitis (p=0.046) and the presence of comorbidity (p=0.008) were the two independent risk factors for catheter revision. Inguinal hernia was noted in six patients. No patient presented with a hydrothorax. Seven patients presented an episode of hemoperitoneum.

CONCLUSION

Our results lead us to focus our efforts on preventing peritonitis and controlling morbidity. Prospective studies will enable us to confirm our results.

Body surface area and treatment failure in peritoneal dialysis-associated peritonitis

INTRODUCTION

This study mainly discussed the relationship between body surface area (BSA) and treatment failure of peritoneal dialysis-associated peritonitis (PDAP).

METHODS

The exposures were BSA grouped by the tertiles of BSA levels. The association between BSA and the risk of treatment failure in PDAP, defined as the temporary or permanent switch to hemodialysis and kidney transplantation, was evaluated in Cox proportional hazards models.

RESULTS

A total of 483 episodes in 285 patients were recorded in our center. As a three-level categorical variable, in reference to G3, the G1 of BSA displayed a 4.054-fold increased venture of treatment failure in a fully adjusted model. In sensitivity analysis, a lower value of BSA (G1) was identified as an independent risk factor for peritonitis episodes (odds ratio = 2.433, 95% confidence interval: 1.184-4.999, p = 0.015).

CONCLUSION

A lower level of body surface area was remarkably associated with a higher incidence of treatment failure among peritoneal dialysis-associated peritonitis episodes.

Higher D-dimer and activated partial thromboplastin time are poor prognostic factors in patients with peritoneal dialysis-related peritonitis

INTRODUCTION

Coagulation system dysfunction is associated with adverse outcomes of peritoneal dialysis (PD) and bacterial infection. We investigated the association between coagulation system and treatment failure of peritoneal dialysis-related peritonitis (PDRP).

METHODS

We collected records of patients aged ≥18 years with PDRP. PDRP episodes were divided into: shortened activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) group and prolonged APTT group, low D-dimer (DD) group and high DD group. The baseline characteristics of the groups were collected and compared. The association between APTT, DD and treatment failure of PDRP was analyzed using logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

Thirty episodes of treatment failure were observed in 110 episodes of PDRP in our study. After adjusting for variables, prolonged APTT (OR = 1.166 [1.049-1.296], p = 0.004) or high level of DD (OR = 1.374 [1.057-1.787], p = 0.017) was associated with treatment failure of PDRP.

CONCLUSION

Prolonged baseline APTT or high level of DD increased the risk of treatment failure of PDRP.

Current Utilization of Antifungal Agents for Intra-abdominal Infections Categorized by Patient Risk Factors During Surgical Procedures: A Literature Review

The high morbidity and mortality rates associated with invasive fungal infections have led to the overutilization of empiric antifungal therapies. With increasing antibiotic resistance, the careful consideration of prophylactic or empiric antifungal use is critical. The purpose of this review is to evaluate the available literature regarding the current practice of utilizing antifungal agents for intra-abdominal infections based on specific surgical procedures and patient risk factors. Relevant articles were identified through a comprehensive literature search of several databases using the keywords antifungal agents, postoperative period, preoperative care, surgical procedures, and intra-abdominal infections. Only articles that evaluated the use of empiric antifungals for suspected or confirmed intra-abdominal infections and surgical procedures were included in this review. Based on the available literature, antifungal prophylaxis is appropriate in patients who meet the criteria for high-risk invasive candidiasis, kidney or liver transplant recipients, severely-immunocompromised patients with perforated peptic ulcer, peritonitis, and patients on peritoneal dialysis who are failing on a therapeutic antibiotic regimen. We acknowledge that the evidence for using antifungal therapy empirically for all surgical procedures is lacking, and the following review is based on available literature and current guidelines.