[Peritoneal dialysis solutions]

New peritoneal dialysis solutions have attracted interest in recent years, as shown by the number of publications. Overall, the most salient aspects refer to the potential clinical benefits achieved using such solutions. Reports on such benefits are sometimes conflicting. The improved preservation of kidney function seen with a biocompatible bicarbonate solution is not seen with biocompatible lactate or bicarbonate/lactate solutions. Lower CRP levels are seen with biocompatible solutions; however, other studies report similar levels. Peritoneal local inflammation parameters suggest that less inflammation occurs with new solutions as compared to the standard solutions. The decreased incidence of peritonitis achieved with a solution in the long term is not achieved with other solutions in the short term. There is no agreement as to whether UF is lower with biocompatible solutions, a well designed study did report a lower ultrafiltration (UF) with the new solutions. The higher the concentration of glucose degradation products in dialysis solutions, the higher will also be in peritoneal fluid and blood, as has brilliantly been reported. Also, the higher the concentration of glucose degradation products, the greater the generation of advanced glycosilation products. All authors conclude that further controlled studies are required to obtain more convincing evidence about the clinical benefits of the new solutions.