Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 29, 2026

A Retrograde Implantation Approach for Peritoneal Dialysis Catheter Placement in Mice
Published on: July 20, 2022
Peritoneal dialysis-associated nontuberculous mycobacterium peritonitis: a systematic review of reported cases
Yan Song1, Jianyong Wu, Huiling Yan
1Kidney Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hanghzou, People’s Republic of China.
Background:
Peritonitis caused by nontuberculous mycobacterium (NTM) is an important complication in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients.
Methods:
Cases of PD complicated by NTM peritonitis reported in the English language literature were identified in the PubMed database. The characteristics of these cases were reviewed.
Results:
In 41 articles, we identified 57 cases of PD-associated NTM peritonitis in patients ranging from 5 to 82 years. The prevalent clinical findings of these cases were fever, abdominal pain, cloudy fluid and an elevated leukocyte count in peritoneal fluid. These findings were non-specific and could not be differentiated from symptoms caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis or other bacteria. The majority of these cases received empirical antibacterial therapy before diagnosis of NTM peritonitis. Isolates in more than half of the peritonitis cases were the rapidly growing Mycobacterium, Mycobacterium fortuitum (38.6%) and Mycobacterium chelonae (14.0%). In most cases, PD catheters were removed and experience with non-removal was limited.
Conclusion:
Diagnosis of NTM infection should be considered in PD patients with peritonitis that are culture negative or refractory to empirical antibiotic therapy.
Insights
Nontuberculous mycobacterium (NTM) peritonitis is a serious complication for peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. Early consideration of NTM infection is crucial for PD patients with refractory peritonitis.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Nontuberculous mycobacterium (NTM) peritonitis poses a significant challenge for patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis (PD).
- This complication can mimic other forms of peritonitis, delaying diagnosis and treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and characterize cases of NTM peritonitis in PD patients reported in the literature.
- To identify common clinical presentations, causative NTM species, and management strategies.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature search was conducted using the PubMed database.
- Cases of PD-associated NTM peritonitis published in English were identified and their characteristics analyzed.
Main Results:
- Fifty-seven cases were identified across 41 articles, with patients aged 5-82 years.
- Common symptoms included fever, abdominal pain, and cloudy peritoneal fluid, which are non-specific.
- Rapidly growing mycobacteria, particularly Mycobacterium fortuitum and Mycobacterium chelonae, were the most frequent isolates.
- Most patients received empirical antibacterial therapy before NTM diagnosis, and PD catheter removal was common.
Conclusions:
- NTM infection should be suspected in PD patients presenting with peritonitis that is culture-negative or unresponsive to standard antibiotic treatment.
- Prompt diagnosis and consideration of NTM are essential for effective management in PD patients.
Related Concept Videos
Peritoneal Dialysis II: Peritoneal Dialysis Systems and Complications
Peritoneal Dialysis III: Nursing Management
Pulmonary Tuberculosis III
The first classification is based on the development of the disease, and it includes the following categories:
Pulmonary Tuberculosis IV
Several diagnostic approaches are used to detect TB. The conventional method is the Tuberculin Skin Test (TST), also known as the Mantoux test. However, this method has...
Pulmonary Tuberculosis V
Latent tuberculosis infection occurs when TB bacteria are present in a person's body, but are not causing illness or symptoms. It is not contagious, and preventive treatment is crucial to avoid the progression...
Atypical Pneumonia
