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Peritonitis in continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis in children living in Saudi Arabia

K Mirza1, A Y Elzouki

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Riyadh Medical Complex, Saudi Arabia.

Insights

Peritonitis is common in children undergoing continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) in Saudi Arabia, often caused by Gram-negative bacteria. Recurrent peritonitis frequently leads to catheter replacement and potential peritoneal membrane loss.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Nephrology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Renal Replacement Therapy

Background:

  • Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) is a vital treatment for pediatric end-stage renal disease.
  • Peritonitis and catheter-related infections are significant complications in CAPD patients.
  • Understanding the epidemiology and causative agents of peritonitis is crucial for effective management in children.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the clinical features, incidence, and outcomes of peritonitis and catheter infections in children on CAPD in Saudi Arabia.
  • To identify common pathogens and risk factors associated with peritonitis in this pediatric population.
  • To assess the impact of peritonitis on treatment and patient outcomes, including catheter survival and peritoneal membrane integrity.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of clinical data from 64 children undergoing CAPD over a 6-year period.
  • Analysis of peritonitis episodes, including time to first episode, incidence rates, and causative organisms.
  • Evaluation of outcomes such as recurrent peritonitis, catheter replacement, peritoneal membrane loss, and mortality.

Main Results:

  • Peritonitis occurred in 64% of children, with a mean time to the first episode of 7.2 months.
  • The incidence of peritonitis was 1 episode per 9 treatment months.
  • Gram-negative organisms (42%) were the most common cause, followed by Gram-positive (20%) and Candida albicans (6%); 32% were culture-negative.
  • Recurrent peritonitis affected 20 cases, leading to catheter replacement in 44% of patients.
  • Peritoneal membrane loss occurred in 7 patients, often linked to Candida or recurrent Pseudomonas peritonitis.

Conclusions:

  • Peritonitis is a frequent complication in pediatric CAPD patients in Saudi Arabia, predominantly caused by Gram-negative bacteria.
  • Recurrent peritonitis poses a significant risk for catheter loss and peritoneal membrane damage.
  • Effective strategies are needed to prevent and manage peritonitis to improve long-term outcomes for children on CAPD.

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