Glucose degradation products in peritoneal dialysis: from bench to bedside

In continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis patients, treatment success is inextricably linked to the functional and morphological integrity of the peritoneal membrane. This membrane, however, is repeatedly exposed to peritoneal dialysis fluids (PDFs) with unphysiological composition (e.g., acidic pH, high glucose content, hyperosmolarity). More recently, attention of researchers and clinicians has been focused on the presence of glucose degradation products (GDPs) that are generated during heat sterilization of PDF. These GDPs were found to adversely affect peritoneal cell function both acutely and chronically. Recently, a new family of multi-chambered PDFs has been introduced into clinical practice. By keeping the glucose in a separate compartment at very low pH, the generation of GDPs during heat sterilization is markedly reduced. Initial clinical studies indicate that treatment with these novel PDFs may lead to improved clinical outcomes. The current article reviews recent experimental and clinical experience with both conventional and multi-chambered PDFs.