[Infectious complications of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis]

Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) is of proven value in the treatment of many patients with chronic renal failure. Infective peritonitis remains the major complication of this form of therapy and repeated infections may result in catheter removal and conversion to haemodialysis. The most appropriate antibiotic treatment, the duration and route of administration are still areas of investigation. The aim of this paper is to discuss the diagnosis, management and prevention of peritonitis in CAPD.