Nutritional status of patients on hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis

In a cross-sectional study, the nutritional status of 32 patients on hemodialysis (HD) and 16 patients on peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) was determined. Protein-caloric malnourishment assessed from a score system based on triceps skin-fold, midarm muscle circumference, S-transferrin and relative body weight was recorded in 54% of the patients. No significant differences between the nutritional status of HD and CAPD patients were found. Malnutrition was more frequent among patients in early stage dialysis (i.e., dialysis for less than 12 months) than among other patients (p less than 0.02). Frequent assessment of the nutritional status is mandatory for optimal nourishment.