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Infection in continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD): aetiology, complications and risk factors

G S Lee1, K T Woo

  • 1Department of Renal Medicine, Singapore General Hospital.

Insights

Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) patients face infections like peritonitis and exit site infections. Using the UV Germicidal Exchange Device may reduce peritonitis episodes compared to the standard spike system.

Area of Science:

  • Nephrology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) is a renal replacement therapy. Peritonitis and exit site infections are significant complications impacting patient morbidity and catheter survival.
  • In 1990, 130 patients were undergoing CAPD at Singapore General Hospital, with specific infection rates documented.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To analyze the incidence and causative organisms of peritonitis and exit site infections in CAPD patients.
  • To identify risk factors associated with these infections and evaluate the impact of the UV Germicidal Exchange Device.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of CAPD patient data from Singapore General Hospital.
  • Documentation of peritonitis and exit site infection rates, microbial profiles, and clinical outcomes including catheter removal and CAPD discontinuation.
  • Comparison of infection rates between patients using the UV Germicidal Exchange Device and the conventional spike system.

Main Results:

  • The peritonitis rate was 1 episode per 20.4 patient-months, with Gram-positive organisms (54%) being most common, particularly Staphylococcus epidermidis (24%).
  • Exit site infection rate was 1 episode per 27.5 patient-months, with Staphylococcus aureus (54%) being the predominant pathogen.
  • Older patients (>50 years) and those with prior exit site infections had higher infection rates. The UV Germicidal Exchange Device group showed lower peritonitis rates.

Conclusions:

  • Peritonitis and exit site infections remain major challenges in CAPD, often requiring catheter removal or treatment cessation.
  • Staphylococcus species are the primary culprits. Patient age and pre-existing exit site infections are risk factors for increased infection frequency.
  • The UV Germicidal Exchange Device may offer a protective effect against peritonitis in CAPD patients.

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