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Culture-negative CAPD peritonitis: the Network 9 Study

M Bunke1, M E Brier, T A Golper

  • 1Academic Committee of Network 9, University of Louisville, Kentucky.

Insights

Initial no growth peritonitis (INGP) in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients is more common in older adults and may require longer intraperitoneal (IP) therapy. INGP outcomes are similar to culture-positive peritonitis, with less catheter removal.

Area of Science:

  • Nephrology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Peritoneal Dialysis

Background:

  • Peritonitis is a common complication of peritoneal dialysis (PD).
  • Some peritonitis episodes are culture-negative, termed initial no growth peritonitis (INGP).
  • Understanding INGP characteristics is crucial for PD patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare demographics, symptoms, signs, treatment, and outcomes of INGP versus culture-positive (Pos) peritonitis.
  • To identify factors associated with INGP in PD patients.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of data from the Network 9 Peritonitis and Catheter Survival Study.
  • Inclusion criteria: PD patients with fluid WBC counts > 100.
  • Comparison of INGP (14% of episodes) with Pos peritonitis.

Main Results:

  • INGP patients were older (≥70 years) and more likely to use dialysate additives.
  • No significant differences in gender, race, diabetes, previous peritonitis, or exit-site infections.
  • INGP group had a lower catheter removal rate but similar hospitalization, death, and hemodialysis switch rates.
  • INGP patients received longer intraperitoneal (IP) therapy (7-10 days vs. ≤6 days).

Conclusions:

  • INGP is a distinct subgroup of peritonitis in PD patients, often affecting older individuals.
  • While INGP shows a lower rate of catheter removal, outcomes are otherwise comparable to culture-positive peritonitis.
  • Longer duration of intraperitoneal therapy may be indicated for INGP cases.

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