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Published on: July 19, 2018
An update on peritoneal dialysis and hemodialysis in the pediatric population
1Children's Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA.
Insights
Automated peritoneal dialysis is common for children needing renal replacement therapy. However, optimal dialysis targets and access remain undetermined, with focus on complications like infection and growth issues.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nephrology
- Renal Replacement Therapy
- Dialysis
Background:
- Automated peritoneal dialysis is the primary renal replacement therapy for most children.
- Hemodialysis serves a significant pediatric patient subset.
- Peritoneal membrane solute transport in children mirrors adult characteristics when standardized.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the need for defined adequacy targets in pediatric dialysis.
- To address the lack of data on ideal dialysis access in children.
- To shift focus towards understanding and preventing clinical complications.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on pediatric dialysis.
- Analysis of peritoneal membrane solute transport studies.
- Identification of research gaps in pediatric dialysis adequacy and access.
Main Results:
- Pediatric and adult peritoneal membrane transport show similarities.
- Established criteria for adequate dialysis (urea and creatinine clearance) are lacking for pediatric patients.
- Clinical complications, not optimal parameters, dominate current research.
Conclusions:
- Further research is crucial to establish dialysis adequacy targets for pediatric patients.
- More data is needed to determine the best dialysis access methods for children.
- Addressing complications requires a better understanding of optimal dialysis parameters and access.
Abstract:
Automated forms of peritoneal dialysis are used by the majority of children receiving chronic renal replacement therapy. Hemodialysis is performed in a smaller but substantial population of patients. Studies of peritoneal membrane solute transport conducted with exchange volumes standardized by body surface area reveal similar characteristics in children and adults. Target urea clearance and creatinine clearance values that define "adequate" dialysis for the pediatric peritoneal dialysis and hemodialysis populations have not yet been determined. Limited data are available to characterize the ideal dialysis access, whereas the clinical complications of infection, growth retardation, and patient mortality receive a great deal of attention.
Related Concept Videos
Extracorporeal Removal of Drugs: Peritoneal Dialysis and Hemodialysis
Peritoneal Dialysis I: Introduction and Procedure
Peritoneal Dialysis II: Peritoneal Dialysis Systems and Complications
Peritoneal Dialysis III: Nursing Management
Hemodialysis I: Introduction
Hemodialysis II: Procedure and Complications

