[Infection associated with hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis catheters]

Catheter-related infections in hemodialysis (HD) and peritoneal dialysis (PD) are one of the most common causes of morbidity and mortality in patients with end-stage renal disease. Staphylococcus aureus in HD patients and S. aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa in PD patients are the most common causative organisms isolated. Currently, the diagnostic tests with highest yield in suspected catheter-related infection in HD patients have not been established, and tests used for central venous catheters (CVC) in general are applied. Management of the infected HD catheter and the use of antimicrobial therapy are similar to the measures used for other CVCs, with some specific recommendations. Peritonitis is the most severe complication in PD patients. Improving hygiene conditions in catheter insertion, treatment of S. aureus nasal carriers, regular treatment of the catheter's exit site, and antibiotic lock therapy have been associated with a reduction of infectious episodes in HD and PD patients.