Peritoneal dialysis: matching the prescription to the membrane

Peritoneal transport characteristics determine solute clearance and ultrafiltration and influence nutrition; matching the prescription to the membrane type is therefore important. The prognostic implications of peritoneal transport rate are here reviewed with emphasis on high transport states. The minimal adequate dose is discussed in the light of three important issues: (1) the relative importance of the urea and creatinine kinetic parameters; (2) the potential contributions of renal and peritoneal clearance to outcome; and (3) the influence of peritoneal transport rates on minimum dose. Specific recommendations are made for the formulation of prescriptions according to membrane type.