Mycobacterium avium complex-associated peritonitis in a patient on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Infectious Diseases
• Microbiology

Background:

• Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) is a common renal replacement therapy.
• Peritonitis is a significant complication of CAPD, often caused by gram-positive bacteria.
• Culture-negative peritonitis presents a diagnostic challenge, potentially involving atypical organisms.

Observation:

• A case of peritonitis in an HIV-negative patient undergoing CAPD is presented.
• The patient developed culture-negative peritonitis.
• Mycobacterium avium complex was identified as the causative agent.

Findings:

• Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) peritonitis occurred in an immunocompetent CAPD patient.
• The infection led to technique failure.
• Treatment was not completed due to patient's death from unrelated causes.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of considering atypical organisms, such as mycobacteria, in culture-negative CAPD peritonitis, even in HIV-negative individuals.
• Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial for managing MAC peritonitis in CAPD patients.
• Further research into diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for culture-negative peritonitis in CAPD is warranted.