CAPD in elderly patients with cardiovascular risk factors

Twenty-nine elderly patients (greater than 70 years) on CAPD treatment were compared with 30 younger patients (less than 55 years). Biochemical parameters did not differ between the two groups, apart from blood sugar which was higher in the older patient group. Ultrafiltration rates were almost identical. CAPD-specific complications also did not differ in the two patient groups. Arterial hypertension was well-controlled on CAPD and the proportion of patients requiring antihypertensives fell significantly. 8% of the old patients and 52% of the young patients required antihypertensive medication after 12 months of therapy compared to 38% and 81% before commencement of CAPD. Improvement of hemodynamic parameters was especially pronounced in older patients, who had cardiac risk factors in a high percentage of cases. Age and cardiac risk factors had the highest impact on the outcome, thus explaining the higher mortality in the older patient group. Older patients with renal insufficiency can be treated with CAPD leading to equally good results as those documented for younger patients.