Safety of intraperitoneal calcium therapy in a rodent model

Hypocalcemia can be a significant problem for the patient with end stage renal disease (ESRD). Although oral calcium supplementation and activated vitamin D therapy may be successful in normalizing serum calcium levels, occasional peritoneal dialysis patients have persistent and clinically significant hypocalcemia. Several researchers have successfully utilized intraperitoneal calcium therapy (ICT) for the treatment of this abnormality. In order to evaluate whether high calcium dialysate is well tolerated, we developed a model system of ICT in Sprague Dawley rats. These rats received intraperitoneal infusion with either normal or high calcium peritoneal dialysate. Studies in this experimental rodent model showed no evidence of adverse effects of high calcium dialysate when used for up to 71 days, except for unexplained weight loss in the high calcium group. ICT can be an important adjunct in the treatment of hypocalcemia seen in patients on peritoneal dialysis. This preliminary animal study supports its clinical use. However further long term studies in animal models will be necessary to establish the long term safety of this therapy.