Antimicrobial agents for preventing peritonitis in peritoneal dialysis patients

Nurse-based educational interventions in patients with peritoneal dialysis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is a major renal replacement therapy modality for patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) worldwide. As poor self-care of PD patients could lead to serious complications, including peritonitis, exit-site infection, technique failure, and death; several nurse-based educational interventions have been introduced. However, these interventions varied and have been supported by small-scale studies so the effectiveness of nurse-based educational interventions on clinical outcomes of PD patients has been inconclusive.

Objectives

To evaluate the effectiveness of nurse-based education interventions in PD patients.

Design

A systematic review and meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs).

Methods

We performed a systematic search using PubMed, Embase, and CENTRAL up to December 31, 2021. Selection criteria included Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) relevant to nurse-based education interventions in ESKD patients with PD in the English language. The meta-analyses were conducted using a random-effects model to evaluate the summary outcomes of peritonitis, PD-related infection, mortality, transfer to hemodialysis, and quality of life (QoL).

Results

From 9,816 potential studies, 71 theme-related abstracts were selected for further full-text articles screening against eligibility criteria. As a result, eleven studies (1,506 PD patients in seven countries) were included in our systematic review. Of eleven studies, eight studies (1,363 PD patients in five countries) were included in the meta-analysis. Sleep QoL in the intervention group was statistically significantly higher than control (mean difference = 12.76, 95% confidence intervals 5.26-20.27). There was no difference between intervention and control groups on peritonitis, PD-related infection, HD transfer, and overall QoL.

Conclusions

Nurse-based educational interventions could help reduce some PD complications, of which only the sleep QoL showed statistically significant improvement. High-quality evidence on the nurse-based educational interventions was limited and more RCTs are needed to provide more robust outcomes.

Tweetable abstract

Nurse-based educational interventions showed promising sleep quality improvement and potential peritonitis risk reduction among PD patients.

Microbiology and outcomes of polymicrobial peritonitis associated with peritoneal dialysis: a register-based cohort study from the French Language Peritoneal Dialysis Registry (RDPLF)

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have reported that polymicrobial peritonitis in peritoneal dialysis (PD) is associated with poor outcomes, but recent data from European cohorts are scarce.

METHODS

We included from the French Language Peritoneal Dialysis Registryall patients ≥ 18 years who started PD between January 2014 and November 2020. We compared microbiology and patient characteristics associated with mono- and polymicrobial peritonitis. We assessed patient outcomes after a first polymicrobial peritonitis using survival analysis with competing events. We differentiated microorganisms isolated from dialysis effluent as enteric or non-enteric pathogens.

RESULTS

8848 patients contributed 13 023 patient-years of follow-up and 3348 culture-positive peritonitis, including 251 polymicrobial ones. This corresponded to rates of 0.32 and 0.02 episodes/patient-year, respectively. For most patients (72%) who experienced polymicrobial peritonitis, this was their first peritonitis episode. Enteric pathogens were more frequently isolated in poly- than in monomicrobial peritonitis (57 vs 44%, P < 0.001). In both cases of peritonitis with or without enteric pathogens, the poly- versus monomicrobial character of the peritonitis was not associated with mortality in patients who did not switch to hemodialysis (adjusted cause-specific hazard ratio, a.cs-HR, 1.2 [95% CI, 0.3-5.0], P = 0.78 and 1.1 [0.7-1.8], P = 0.73, respectively). However, the risks of death and switch to hemodialysis were higher for monomicrobial peritonitis with enteric pathogens, compared to those without (a.cs-HR, 1.3 [1.1-1.7], P = 0.02 and 1.9 [1.5-2.4], P < 0.0001, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Isolation of enteric pathogens, rather than the polymicrobial character of the peritonitis, is associated with poorer outcomes.

Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis Peritonitis Guidelines - Consensus Statement of Peritoneal Dialysis Society of India - 2020

Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) related peritonitis is a major cause of technique failure, morbidity, and mortality in patients on CAPD. Its prevention and management is key to success of CAPD program. Due to variability in practice, microbiological trends and sensitivity towards antibiotics, there is a need for customized guidelines for management of CAPD related peritonitis (CAPDRP) in India. With this need, Peritoneal Dialysis Society of India (PDSI) organized a structured meeting to discuss various aspects of management of CAPDRP and formulated a consensus agreement which will help in management of patients with CAPDRP.

Catheter type, placement and insertion techniques for preventing catheter-related infections in chronic peritoneal dialysis patients

BACKGROUND

Peritonitis is one of the limiting factors for the growth of peritoneal dialysis (PD) worldwide and is a major cause of technique failure. Several studies have examined the effectiveness of various catheter-related interventions for lowering the risk of PD-related peritonitis. This is an update of a review first published in 2004.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the role of different catheter implantation techniques and catheter types in lowering the risk of PD-related peritonitis in PD patients.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Kidney and Transplant Register of Studies up to 15 January 2019 through contact with the Information Specialist using search terms relevant to this review. Studies in the Register are identified through searches of CENTRAL, MEDLINE, and EMBASE, conference proceedings, the International Clinical Trials Register (ICTRP) Search Portal and ClinicalTrials.gov.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Studies comparing different catheter insertion techniques, catheter types, use of immobilisation techniques and different break-in periods were included. Studies of different PD sets were excluded.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors independently assessed study quality and extracted data. Statistical analyses were performed using a random effects model and the results expressed as risk ratio (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).

MAIN RESULTS

Forty-two studies (3144 participants) were included: 18 evaluated techniques of catheter implantation, 22 examined catheter types, one assessed an immobiliser device, and one examined break-in period. In general, study quality was variable and almost all aspects of study design did not fulfil CONSORT standards for reporting.Catheter insertion by laparoscopy compared with laparotomy probably makes little or no difference to the risks of peritonitis (RR 0.90, 95% CI 0.59 to 1.35; moderate certainty evidence), exit-site/tunnel infection (RR 1.00, 95% CI 0.43 to 2.31; low certainty evidence), catheter removal/replacement (RR 1.20, 95% CI 0.77 to 1.86; low certainty evidence), technique failure (RR 0.71, 95% CI 0.47 to 1.08; low certainty evidence), and death (all causes) (RR 1.26, 95% CI 0.72 to 2.20; moderate certainty evidence). It is uncertain whether subcutaneous burying of catheter increases peritonitis (RR 1.16, 95% CI 0.37 to 3.60; very low certainty evidence). Midline insertion compared to lateral insertion probably makes little or no difference to the risks of peritonitis (RR 0.65, 95% CI 0.32 to 1.33; moderate certainty evidence) and may make little or no difference to exit-site/tunnel infection (RR 0.56, 95% CI 0.12 to 2.58; low certainty evidence). Percutaneous insertion compared with open surgery probably makes little or no difference to the exit-site/tunnel infection (RR 0.16, 95% CI 0.02 to 1.30; moderate certainty evidence).Straight catheters probably make little or no difference to the risk of peritonitis (RR 1.04, 95% CI 0.82 to 1.31; moderate certainty evidence), peritonitis rate (RR 0.91, 95% CI 0.68 to 1.21; moderate certainty evidence), risk of exit-site infection (RR 1.12, 95% CI 0.94 to 1.34; moderate certainty evidence), and exit-site infection rate (RR 1.05, 95% CI 0.77 to 1.43; moderate certainty evidence) compared to coiled catheter. It is uncertain whether straight catheters prevent catheter removal or replacement (RR 1.11, 95% CI 0.73 to 1.66; very low certainty evidence) but straight catheters probably make little or no difference to technique failure (RR 0.82, 95% CI 0.51 to 1.31; moderate certainty evidence) and death (all causes) (RR 0.95, 95% CI 0.62 to 1.46; low certainty evidence) compared to coiled catheter. Tenckhoff catheter with artificial curve at subcutaneous tract compared with swan-neck catheter may make little or no difference to peritonitis (RR 1.29, 95% CI 0.85 to 1.96; low certainty evidence) and incidence of exit-site/tunnel infection (RR 0.96, 95% CI 0.77 to 1.21; low certainty evidence) but may slightly improve exit-site infection rate (RR 0.67, 95% CI 0.50 to 0.90; low certainty evidence).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

There is no strong evidence that any catheter-related intervention, including the use of different catheter types or different insertion techniques, reduces the risks of PD peritonitis or other PD-related infections, technique failure or death (all causes). However, the numbers and sizes of studies were generally small and the methodological quality of available studies was suboptimal, such that the possibility that a particular catheter-related intervention might have a beneficial effect cannot be completely ruled out with confidence.

Peritoneal Dialysis in Austere Environments: An Emergent Approach to Renal Failure Management

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is a means of renal replacement therapy (RRT) that can be performed in remote settings with limited resources, including regions that lack electrical power. PD is a mainstay of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) therapy worldwide, and the ease of initiation and maintenance has enabled it to flourish in both resource-limited and resource-abundant settings. In natural disaster scenarios, military conflicts, and other austere areas, PD may be the only available life-saving measure for acute kidney injury (AKI) or ESRD. PD in austere environments is not without challenges, including catheter placement, availability of dialysate, and medical complications related to the procedure itself. However, when hemodialysis is unavailable, PD can be performed using generally available medical supplies including sterile tubing and intravenous fluids. Amidst the ever-increasing global burden of ESRD and AKI, the ability to perform PD is essential for many medical facilities.

Antimicrobial agents for preventing peritonitis in peritoneal dialysis patients

BACKGROUND

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is an important therapy for patients with end-stage kidney disease and is used in more than 200,000 such patients globally. However, its value is often limited by the development of infections such as peritonitis and exit-site and tunnel infections. Multiple strategies have been developed to reduce the risk of peritonitis including antibiotics, topical disinfectants to the exit site and antifungal agents. However, the effectiveness of these strategies has been variable and are based on a small number of randomised controlled trials (RCTs). The optimal preventive strategies to reduce the occurrence of peritonitis remain unclear.This is an update of a Cochrane review first published in 2004.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the benefits and harms of antimicrobial strategies used to prevent peritonitis in PD patients.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Kidney and Transplant's Specialised Register to 4 October 2016 through contact with the Information Specialist using search terms relevant to this review. Studies contained in the Specialised Register are identified through search strategies specifically designed for CENTRAL, MEDLINE, and EMBASE; handsearching conference proceedings; and searching the International Clinical Trials Register (ICTRP) Search Portal and ClinicalTrials.gov.

SELECTION CRITERIA

RCTs or quasi-RCTs in patients receiving chronic PD, which evaluated any antimicrobial agents used systemically or locally to prevent peritonitis or exit-site/tunnel infection were included.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors independently assessed risk of bias and extracted data. Summary estimates of effect were obtained using a random-effects model, and results were expressed as risk ratio (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).

MAIN RESULTS

Thirty-nine studies, randomising 4435 patients, were included. Twenty additional studies have been included in this update. The risk of bias domains were often unclear or high; risk of bias was judged to be low in 19 (49%) studies for random sequence generation, 12 (31%) studies for allocation concealment, 22 (56%) studies for incomplete outcome reporting, and in 12 (31%) studies for selective outcome reporting. Blinding of participants and personnel was considered to be at low risk of bias in 8 (21%) and 10 studies (26%) for blinding of outcome assessors. It should be noted that blinding of participants and personnel was not possible in many of the studies because of the nature of the intervention or control treatment.The use of oral or topical antibiotic compared with placebo/no treatment, had uncertain effects on the risk of exit-site/tunnel infection (3 studies, 191 patients, low quality evidence: RR 0.45, 95% CI 0.19 to 1.04) and the risk of peritonitis (5 studies, 395 patients, low quality evidence: RR 0.82, 95% CI 0.57 to 1.19).The use of nasal antibiotic compared with placebo/no treatment had uncertain effects on the risk of exit-site/tunnel infection (3 studies, 338 patients, low quality evidence: RR 1.34, 95% CI 0.62 to 2.87) and the risk of peritonitis (3 studies, 338 patients, low quality evidence: RR 0.94, 95% CI 0.67 to 1.31).Pre/perioperative intravenous vancomycin compared with no treatment may reduce the risk of early peritonitis (1 study, 177 patients, low quality evidence: RR 0.08, 95% CI 0.01 to 0.61) but has an uncertain effect on the risk of exit-site/tunnel infection (1 study, 177 patients, low quality evidence: RR 0.36, 95% CI 0.10 to 1.32).The use of topical disinfectant compared with standard care or other active treatment (antibiotic or other disinfectant) had uncertain effects on the risk of exit-site/tunnel infection (8 studies, 973 patients, low quality evidence, RR 1.00, 95% CI 0.75 to 1.33) and the risk of peritonitis (6 studies, 853 patients, low quality evidence: RR 0.83, 95% CI 0.65 to 1.06).Antifungal prophylaxis with oral nystatin/fluconazole compared with placebo/no treatment may reduce the risk of fungal peritonitis occurring after a patient has had an antibiotic course (2 studies, 817 patients, low quality evidence: RR 0.28, 95% CI 0.12 to 0.63).No intervention reduced the risk of catheter removal or replacement. Most of the available studies were small and of suboptimal quality. Only six studies enrolled 200 or more patients.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

In this update, we identified limited data from RCTs and quasi-RCTs which evaluated strategies to prevent peritonitis and exit-site/tunnel infections. This review demonstrates that pre/peri-operative intravenous vancomycin may reduce the risk of early peritonitis and that antifungal prophylaxis with oral nystatin or fluconazole reduces the risk of fungal peritonitis following an antibiotic course. However, no other antimicrobial interventions have proven efficacy. In particular, the use of nasal antibiotic to eradicate Staphylococcus aureus, had an uncertain effect on the risk of peritonitis and raises questions about the usefulness of this approach. Given the large number of patients on PD and the importance of peritonitis, the lack of adequately powered and high quality RCTs to inform decision making about strategies to prevent peritonitis is striking.

Comparison of Early Mechanical and Infective Complications in First Time Blind, Bedside, Midline Percutaneous Tenckhoff Catheter Insertion with Ultra-Short Break-In Period in Diabetics and Non-Diabetics: Setting New Standards

♦ BACKGROUND: There are no large studies that have examined ultra-short break-in period with a blind, bedside, midline approach to Tenckhoff catheter insertion. ♦ METHODS: Observational cohort study of 245 consecutive adult patients who underwent percutaneous catheter insertion for chronic peritoneal dialysis (PD) at our center from January 2009 to December 2013. There were 132 (53.9%) diabetics and 113 (46.1%) non-diabetics in the cohort. ♦ RESULTS: The mean break-in period for the percutaneous group was 2.68 ± 2.6 days. There were significantly more males among the diabetics (103 [78%] vs 66 [58.4%], p = 0.001). Diabetics had a significantly higher body mass index (BMI) (23.9 ± 3.7 kg/m2 vs 22.2 ± 4 kg/m2, p < 0.001) and lower serum albumin (33.1 ± 6.3 g/L vs 37 ± 6 g/L, p < 0.001) compared with non-diabetics. Poor catheter outflow was present in 6 (4.5%) diabetics and 16 (14.2%) non-diabetics (p = 0.009). Catheter migration was also significantly more common in the non-diabetic group (11 [9.7%] vs 2 [1.5%], p = 0.004). Primary catheter non-function was present in 17(15%) of the non-diabetics and in 7(5.3%) of the diabetics (p = 0.01). There were no mortality or major non-procedural complications during the catheter insertions. Among patients with 1 year of follow-up data, catheter survival (93/102 [91.2%] vs 71/82 [86.6%], p = 0.32) and technique survival (93/102 [91.2%] vs 70/82 [85.4%], p = 0.22) at 1 year was comparable between diabetics and non-diabetics, respectively. ♦ CONCLUSIONS: Percutaneous catheter insertion by practicing nephrologists provides a short break-in period with very low mechanical and infective complications. Non-diabetic status emerged as a significant risk factor for primary catheter non-function presumed to be due to more patients with lower BMI and thus smaller abdominal cavities. This is the first report that systematically compares diabetic and non-diabetic patients.

Microbiological Surveillance of Peritoneal Dialysis Associated Peritonitis: Antimicrobial Susceptibility Profiles of a Referral Center in GERMANY over 32 Years

Objectives

Peritonitis is one of the most important causes of treatment failure in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. This study describes changes in characteristics of causative organisms in PD-related peritonitis and antimicrobial susceptibility.

Methods

In this single center study we analyzed retrospective 487 susceptibility profiles of the peritoneal fluid cultures of 351 adult patients with peritonitis from 1979 to 2014 (divided into three time periods, P1-P3).

Results

Staphylococcus aureus decreased from P1 compared to P2 and P3 (P<0.05 and P<0.01, respectively). Methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) occurred only in P3. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis (MRSE) increased in P3 over P1 and P2 (P <0.0001, respectively). In P2 and P3, vancomycin resistant enterococci were detected. The percentage of gram-negative organisms remained unchanged. Third generation cephalosporin resistant gram-negative rods (3GCR-GN) were found exclusively in P3. Cefazolin-susceptible gram-positive organisms decreased over the three decades (93% in P1, 75% in P2 and 58% in P3, P<0.01, P<0.05 and P<0.0001, respectively). Vancomycin susceptibility decreased and gentamicin susceptibility in gram-negatives was 94% in P1, 82% in P2 and 90% in P3. Ceftazidim susceptibility was 84% in P2 and 93% in P3.

Conclusions

Peritonitis caused by MSSA decreased, but peritonitis caused by MRSE increased. MRSA peritonitis is still rare. Peritonitis caused by 3GCR-GN is increasing. An initial antibiotic treatment protocol should be adopted for PD patients to provide continuous surveillance.

The Effect of Exit-Site Antibacterial Honey Versus Nasal Mupirocin Prophylaxis on the Microbiology and Outcomes of Peritoneal Dialysis-Associated Peritonitis and Exit-Site Infections: A Sub-Study of the Honeypot Trial

♦

BACKGROUND

The HONEYPOT study recently reported that daily exit-site application of antibacterial honey was not superior to nasal mupirocin prophylaxis for preventing overall peritoneal dialysis (PD)-related infection. This paper reports a secondary outcome analysis of the HONEYPOT study with respect to exit-site infection (ESI) and peritonitis microbiology, infectious hospitalization and technique failure. ♦

METHODS

A total of 371 PD patients were randomized to daily exit-site application of antibacterial honey plus usual exit-site care (N = 186) or intranasal mupirocin prophylaxis (in nasal Staphylococcus aureus carriers only) plus usual exit-site care (control, N = 185). Groups were compared on rates of organism-specific ESI and peritonitis, peritonitis- and infection-associated hospitalization, and technique failure (PD withdrawal). ♦

RESULTS

The mean peritonitis rates in the honey and control groups were 0.41 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.32 - 0.50) and 0.41 (95% CI 0.33 - 0.49) episodes per patient-year, respectively (incidence rate ratio [IRR] 1.01, 95% CI 0.75 - 1.35). When specific causative organisms were examined, no differences were observed between the groups for gram-positive (IRR 0.99, 95% CI 0.66 - 1.49), gram-negative (IRR 0.71, 95% CI 0.39 - 1.29), culture-negative (IRR 2.01, 95% CI 0.91 - 4.42), or polymicrobial peritonitis (IRR 1.08, 95% CI 0.36 - 3.20). Exit-site infection rates were 0.37 (95% CI 0.28 - 0.45) and 0.33 (95% CI 0.26 - 0.40) episodes per patient-year for the honey and control groups, respectively (IRR 1.12, 95% CI 0.81 - 1.53). No significant differences were observed between the groups for gram-positive (IRR 1.10, 95% CI 0.70 - 1.72), gram-negative (IRR: 0.85, 95% CI 0.46 - 1.58), culture-negative (IRR 1.88, 95% CI 0.67 - 5.29), or polymicrobial ESI (IRR 1.00, 95% CI 0.40 - 2.54). Times to first peritonitis-associated and first infection-associated hospitalization were similar in the honey and control groups. The rates of technique failure (PD withdrawal) due to PD-related infection were not significantly different between the groups. ♦

CONCLUSION

Compared with standard nasal mupirocin prophylaxis, daily topical exit-site application of antibacterial honey resulted in comparable rates of organism-specific peritonitis and ESI, infection-associated hospitalization, and infection-associated technique failure in PD patients.

A review of acute and chronic peritoneal dialysis in developing countries

Various modalities of renal replacement therapy (RRT) are available for the management of acute kidney injury (AKI) and end-stage renal disease (ESRD). While developed countries mainly use hemodialysis as a form of RRT, peritoneal dialysis (PD) has been increasingly utilized in developing countries. Chronic PD offers various benefits including lower cost, home-based therapy, single access, less requirement of highly trained personnel and major infrastructure, higher number of patients under a single nephrologist with probably improved quality of life and freedom of activities. PD has been found to be lifesaving in the management of AKI in patients in developing countries where facilities for other forms of RRT are not readily available. The International Society of Peritoneal Dialysis has published guidelines regarding the use of PD in AKI, which has helped in ensuring uniformity. PD has also been successfully used in certain special situations of AKI due to snake bite, malaria, febrile illness, following cardiac surgery and in poisoning. Hemodialysis is the most common form of RRT used in ESRD worldwide, but some countries have begun to adopt a 'PD first' policy to reduce healthcare costs of RRT and ensure that it reaches the underserved population.

Double bag or Y-set versus standard transfer systems for continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis in end-stage kidney disease

BACKGROUND

Peritonitis is the most frequent serious complication of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). It has a major influence on the number of patients switching from CAPD to haemodialysis and has probably restricted the wider acceptance and uptake of CAPD as an alternative mode of dialysis.This is an update of a review first published in 2000.

OBJECTIVES

This systematic review sought to determine if modifications of the transfer set (Y-set or double bag systems) used in CAPD exchanges are associated with a reduction in peritonitis and an improvement in other relevant outcomes.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Renal Group's Specialised Register through contact with the Trials Search Co-ordinator. Studies contained in the Specialised Register are identified through search strategies specifically designed for CENTRAL, MEDLINE and EMBASE. Date of last search: 22 October 2013.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi-RCTs comparing double bag, Y-set and standard peritoneal dialysis (PD) exchange systems in patients with end-stage kidney disease.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Data were abstracted by a single investigator onto a standard form and analysed by Review Manager. Analysis was by a random effects model and results were expressed as risk ratio (RR) or mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).

MAIN RESULTS

Twelve eligible trials with a total of 991 randomised patients were identified. Despite the large total number of patients, few trials covered the same interventions, small numbers of patients were enrolled in each trial and the methodological quality was suboptimal. Y-set and twin-bag systems were superior to conventional spike systems (7 trials, 485 patients, RR 0.64, 95% CI 0.53 to 0.77) in preventing peritonitis in PD.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Disconnect systems should be the preferred exchange systems in CAPD.

Percutaneous peritoneal dialysis catheter insertion by a nephrologist: a new, simple, and safe technique

BACKGROUND

Insertion of the peritoneal dialysis (PD) catheter by a nephrologist has been encouraged by several studies. The ultimate goal is to provide safe, timely, and effective catheter insertion without an unduly long wait time or delay. The success of PD depends partly on the ease of catheter insertion. We developed a new technique for percutaneous PD catheter insertion by nephrologists. Our new technique, in addition to being easy, proved to be safe and to eliminate the need for the peel-away sheath.

METHODS

Data were collected prospectively on all patients having a PD catheter inserted by a nephrologist using our new technique (40 catheters in 38 patients). All catheters were evaluated for infectious and mechanical complications.

RESULTS

The mean duration of the procedure from skin sterilization to the end of insertion was 24 ± 3 minutes. No bowel perforation or serious hemorrhage was recorded. Poor initial drainage was recorded in 12.5% of the catheters (n = 5) during the 4 weeks after insertion. The incidence of early exit-site leakage was 2.5% (1 catheter). Episodes of exit-site infection occurred in 5.0% and 12.5% of catheters (within 1 month and by the end of study period respectively). Two episodes of peritonitis were reported by the end of the 12-month period. Catheter survival was 95.0% and 87.5% at 6 months and 12 months respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Percutaneous bedside placement of PD catheters using our new technique is safe and carries less morbidity in terms of bowel perforation, catheter-related infection, and exit-site leak. In addition, our new technique appears to have a high success rate and to offer considerable savings in terms of operating time.

32 years' experience of peritoneal dialysis-related peritonitis in a university hospital

BACKGROUND

Peritonitis in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients can lead to technique failure and contributes to infection-related mortality. Peritonitis prevention and optimization of treatment are therefore important in the care for PD patients. In the present study, we analyzed the incidence of peritonitis, causative pathogens, clinical outcomes, and trends in relation to three major treatment changes that occurred from 1979 onward: use of a disconnect system since 1988, daily mupirocin at the exit-site since 2001, and exclusive use of biocompatible dialysis solutions since 2004.

METHODS

In this analysis of prospectively collected data, we included peritonitis episodes from the start of PD at our center in August 1979 to July 2010. Incident PD patients were allocated to one of four groups: Group 1 - 182 patients experiencing 148 first peritonitis episodes between 1979 and 1987, before the introduction of the disconnect system; Group 2 - 352 patients experiencing 239 first episodes of peritonitis between 1988 and 2000, before implementation of daily mupirocin application at the catheter exit-site; Group 3 - 79 patients experiencing 50 first peritonitis episodes between 2001 and 2003, before the switch to biocompatible solutions; and Group 4-118 patients experiencing 91 first peritonitis episodes after 2004. Cephradine was used as initial antibiotic treatment.

RESULTS

In 32 years, 731 adult patients started PD, and 2234 episodes of peritonitis in total were diagnosed and treated. Of those episodes, 88% were cured with medical treatment only, and 10% resulted in catheter removal. In 3% of the episodes, the patient died during peritonitis. Median time to a first peritonitis episode increased from 40 days for group 1 to 150 for group 2, 269 for group 3, and 274 for group 4. The overall peritonitis rate and the gram-positive and gram-negative peritonitis rates showed a time-trend of decline. However, the duration of antibiotic treatment increased over time, with groups 3 and 4 having the longest duration of treatment, accompanied by a higher percentage of antibiotic switch. Increased resistance to cephradine was found for coagulase-negative Staphylococcus.

CONCLUSIONS

Peritonitis rates declined significantly over the years because of several changes in PD treatment. However, the need to change the initial antibiotic increased because of diminished antibiotic susceptibility rates over time. Nevertheless, the cure rate was high and remained stable during the entire period analyzed, and the death rate remained low. Consequently, peritonitis is a manageable complication of PD that cannot be considered a contraindication to this mode of renal replacement therapy.

Prophylactic antibiotics for endoscopy-associated peritonitis in peritoneal dialysis patients

INTRODUCTION

Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) peritonitis may develop after endoscopic procedures, and the benefit of prophylactic antibiotics is unclear. In the present study, we investigated whether prophylactic antibiotics reduce the incidence of peritonitis in these patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed all endoscopic procedures, including esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, cystoscopy, hysteroscopy, and hysteroscopy-assisted intrauterine device (IUD) implantation/removal, performed in CAPD patients at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taiwan, between February 2001 and February 2012.

RESULTS

Four hundred and thirty-three patients were enrolled, and 125 endoscopies were performed in 45 patients. Eight (6.4%) peritonitis episodes developed after the examination. Antibiotics were used in 26 procedures, and none of the patients had peritonitis (0% vs. 8.1% without antibiotic use; p=0.20). The peritonitis rate was significantly higher in the non-EGD group than in the EGD group (15.9% [7/44] vs. 1.2% [1/81]; p<0.005). Antibiotic use prior to non-EGD examinations significantly reduced the endoscopy-associated peritonitis rate compared to that without antibiotic use (0% [0/16] vs. 25% [7/28]; p<0.05). Peritonitis only occurred if invasive procedures were performed, such as biopsy, polypectomy, or IUD implantation, (noninvasive procedures, 0% [0/20] vs. invasive procedures, 30.4% [7/23]; p<0.05). No peritonitis was noted if antibiotics were used prior to examination with invasive procedures (0% [0/10] vs. 53.8% [7/13] without antibiotic use; p<0.05). Although not statistically significant, antibiotics may play a role in preventing gynecologic procedure-related peritonitis (antibiotics, 0% [0/4] vs. no antibiotics, 55.6% [5/9]; p=0.10).

CONCLUSION

Antibiotic prophylaxis significantly reduced endoscopy-associated PD peritonitis in the non-EGD group. Endoscopically assisted invasive procedures, such as biopsy, polypectomy, IUD implantation/removal, and dilatation and curettage (D&C), pose a high risk for peritonitis. Prophylactic antibiotics for peritonitis prevention may be required in colonoscopic procedures and gynecologic procedures.

Peritoneal dialysis associated infections: An update on diagnosis and management

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is associated with a high risk of infection of the peritoneum, subcutaneous tunnel and catheter exit site. Although quality standards demand an infection rate < 0.67 episodes/patient/year on dialysis, the reported overall rate of PD associated infection is 0.24-1.66 episodes/patient/year. It is estimated that for every 0.5-per-year increase in peritonitis rate, the risk of death increases by 4% and 18% of the episodes resulted in removal of the PD catheter and 3.5% resulted in death. Improved diagnosis, increased awareness of causative agents in addition to other measures will facilitate prompt management of PD associated infection and salvage of PD modality. The aims of this review are to determine the magnitude of the infection problem, identify possible risk factors and provide an update on the diagnosis and management of PD associated infection. Gram-positive cocci such as Staphylococcus epidermidis, other coagulase negative staphylococcoci, and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) are the most frequent aetiological agents of PD-associated peritonitis worldwide. Empiric antibiotic therapy must cover both gram-positive and gram-negative organisms. However, use of systemic vancomycin and ciprofloxacin administration for example, is a simple and efficient first-line protocol antibiotic therapy for PD peritonitis - success rate of 77%. However, for fungal PD peritonitis, it is now standard practice to remove PD catheters in addition to antifungal treatment for a minimum of 3 wk and subsequent transfer to hemodialysis. To prevent PD associated infections, prophylactic antibiotic administration before catheter placement, adequate patient training, exit-site care, and treatment for S. aureus nasal carriage should be employed. Mupirocin treatment can reduce the risk of exit site infection by 46% but it cannot decrease the risk of peritonitis due to all organisms.

In vitro microbiology studies on a new peritoneal dialysis connector

OBJECTIVE

We evaluated the ability of a recently developed peritoneal dialysis (PD) connector to prevent the risk of bacterial transfer to the fluid path after simulated touch and airborne contamination.

METHODS

Staphylococcus epidermidis ATCC1228 and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC27853 strains were used. For touch contamination, 2 μL of a standardized inoculum [1×10(8) colony-forming units (CFU) per milliliter] were deposited on top of the pin closing the fluid path of the patient connector. For airborne contamination, the patient connector was exposed for 15 seconds to a nebulized standardized inoculum. To simulate the patient peritoneum and effluent, the patient connector was pre-attached to a 2-L bag of sterile PD solution. After contamination, the patient connector was attached to the transfer set, the pin was captured, flow control was turned to simulate "patient drain" into the empty bag, and then "patient fill" using the bag pre-attached to the connector. Finally, a new pin was recaptured. The PD solution collected in the bag pre-attached to the connector was run through a 0.20-μm filter for colony counts.

RESULTS

No infected connector transferred bacteria to the fluid path, regardless of the challenge procedure or the strain used.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results show that the new PD connector may fully obviate the risk of bacterial infection, even in the presence of heavy contamination. Further studies are in progress to test our PD connector in a clinical setting.

Relapsing and recurrent peritoneal dialysis-associated peritonitis: a multicenter registry study

BACKGROUND

The causes, predictors, treatment, and outcomes of relapsed and recurrent peritoneal dialysis (PD)-associated peritonitis are poorly understood.

STUDY DESIGN

Observational cohort study using Australia and New Zealand Dialysis and Transplant (ANZDATA) Registry data.

SETTING & PARTICIPANTS

All Australian PD patients between October 1, 2003, and December 31, 2007, with first episodes of peritonitis.

PREDICTORS

Demographic, clinical, and facility variables and type of peritonitis; relapse (same organism or culture-negative episode occurring within 4 weeks of completion of therapy of a prior episode or 5 weeks if vancomycin used); recurrence (different organism occurring within 4 weeks of completion of therapy of a prior episode or 5 weeks if vancomycin used); control (first peritonitis episode without relapse or recurrence).

OUTCOMES & MEASUREMENTS

Hospitalization, catheter removal, hemodialysis therapy transfer, death.

RESULTS

Of 6,024 PD patients studied, first episodes of relapsed, recurrent, and control peritonitis occurred in 356, 165, and 2,021 patients, respectively. Coagulase-negative staphylococci and Staphylococcus aureus accounted for 48% of relapsing peritonitis (adjusted OR, 1.26 [95% CI, 0.94-1.70] and 1.54 [95% CI, 1.08-2.19], respectively), but were much less likely to be isolated in recurrent peritonitis. Recurrent peritonitis was associated more frequently with fungi (13%; OR, 2.16; 95% CI, 1.12-4.17). The empirical antimicrobial approaches to relapsing and recurrent peritonitis were similar and their subsequent clinical outcomes were comparable. Compared with uncomplicated peritonitis, relapsed and recurrent peritonitis were associated with higher rates of catheter removal (22% vs 30% vs 37%, respectively; P < 0.001) and permanent hemodialysis therapy transfer (20% vs 25% vs 32%; P < 0.001), but similar rates of hospitalization (73% vs 70% vs 70%) and death (2.8% vs 2.0% vs 1.2%).

LIMITATIONS

Limited covariate adjustment. Residual confounding and coding bias could not be excluded.

CONCLUSIONS

Relapsed and recurrent peritonitis are caused by different spectra of micro-organisms, but are not readily clinically distinguishable at presentation. Empirical treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics and subsequent adjustment according to antimicrobial susceptibilities results in similar clinical outcomes, albeit with appreciably higher rates of catheter removal and hemodialysis therapy transfer than for uncomplicated peritonitis.

Relapsing peritonitis in children who undergo chronic peritoneal dialysis: a prospective study of the international pediatric peritonitis registry

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

The International Pediatric Peritonitis Registry (IPPR) was established to collect prospective data regarding peritoneal dialysis (PD)-associated peritonitis in children. In this report, we present the IPPR results that pertain to relapsing peritonitis (RP).

DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, & MEASUREMENTS

This was an online, prospective entry into the IPPR of data that pertain to peritonitis cases by participating centers.

RESULTS

Of 490 episodes of nonfungal peritonitis, 52 (11%) were followed by a relapse. There was no significant difference between RP and non-RP in distribution of causative organisms and antibiotic sensitivities. Initial empiric therapy-ceftazidime with either first-generation cephalosporin or glycopeptide (vancomycin or teicoplanin)-was not associated with relapse. Switching to monotherapy with a first-generation cephalosporin on the basis of culture results was associated with higher relapse rate (23%) than other final antibiotic therapies (0 to 9%). Culture-negative RP was less likely to have a satisfactory early treatment response than non-RP (82 versus 98%). Young age, single-cuff catheter, downward-pointing exit site, and chronic systemic antibiotic prophylaxis were additional independent risk factors for RP in the multivariate analysis. Compared with non-RP, RP was associated with a lower rate of full functional recovery (73 versus 91%), higher ultrafiltration problems (14 versus 2%), and higher rate of permanent PD discontinuation (17 versus 7%).

CONCLUSIONS

This is the largest multicenter, prospective study to date to examine RP in children. In addition, this is the first report in the literature to examine specifically the relationship of postempiric antibiotic treatment regimens to the subsequent risk for relapse.

Dialysis-associated peritonitis in children

Peritonitis remains a frequent complication of peritoneal dialysis in children and is the most common reason for technique failure. The microbiology is characterized by a predominance of Gram-positive organisms, with fungi responsible for less than 5% of episodes. Data collected by the International Pediatric Peritonitis Registry have revealed a worldwide variation in the bacterial etiology of peritonitis, as well as in the rate of culture-negative peritonitis. Risk factors for infection include young age, the absence of prophylactic antibiotics at catheter placement, spiking of dialysis bags, and the presence of a catheter exit-site or tunnel infection. Clinical symptoms at presentation are somewhat organism specific and can be objectively assessed with a Disease Severity Score. Whereas recommendations for empiric antibiotic therapy in children have been published by the International Society of Peritoneal Dialysis, epidemiologic data and antibiotic susceptibility data suggest that it may be desirable to take the patient- and center-specific history of microorganisms and their sensitivity patterns into account when prescribing initial therapy. The vast majority of patients are treated successfully and continue peritoneal dialysis, with the poorest outcome noted in patients with peritonitis secondary to Gram-negative organisms or fungi and in those with a relapsing infection.

Interventions for preventing infectious complications in haemodialysis patients with central venous catheters

BACKGROUND

Central venous catheters (CVC) continue to play a prominent role in haemodialysis vascular access with 46% to 70% of patients commencing haemodialysis via a CVC. CVC access is associated with catheter-related infections, increased patient hospitalisations and death due to infection. A variety of interventions are used to prevent CVC infection.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the benefits and harms of prophylactic topical antimicrobials, topical antiseptics, medicated and non-medicated dressings on infectious complications among haemodialysis patients with CVC.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched the Cochrane Renal Group's specialised register, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, EMBASE and reference lists of articles without language restriction.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs investigating any intervention that prevented infectious complications among haemodialysis patients with CVC. We excluded antimicrobial impregnated CVC or CVC using locking solutions with antimicrobial properties.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors assessed study quality and extracted data. Dichotomous outcomes were expressed as risk ratios (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) and continuous outcomes as mean differences (MD).

MAIN RESULTS

Ten studies (786 patients) were included. Mupirocin ointment reduced the risk of catheter-related bacteraemia (RR 0.17, 95%CI 0.07 to 0.43) and had a significant effect on catheter-related infections caused by S. aureus. The risk of catheter-related bacteraemia was reduced by polysporin (RR 0.40, 95%CI 0.19 to 0.86) and povidone-iodine ointment (RR 0.10, 95%CI 0.01 to 0.72). Subgroup analysis suggested mupirocin (RR 0.12, 95%CI 0.01 to 2.13) and povidone-iodine ointment (RR 0.84, 95%CI 0.24 to 2.98) had no effect on all-cause mortality while polysporin ointment showed a significant reduction (RR 0.22, 95%CI 0.07 to 0.74). Mortality related to infection was not reduced by mupirocin, polysporin or povidone-iodine ointment. Topical honey did not reduce the risk of exit site infection (RR 0.45, 95%CI 0.10 to 2.11) or catheter-related bacteraemia (RR 0.80, 95%CI 0.37 to 1.73). Transparent polyurethane dressing compared to dry gauze dressing did not reduce the risk of CVC or exit site infection, or catheter-related bacteraemia.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Mupirocin ointment appears effective in reducing the risk of catheter-related bacteraemia. Insufficient reporting on mupirocin resistance was noted and needs to be considered in future studies. A lack of high quality data on the routine use of povidone-iodine ointment, polysporin ointment and topical honey warrant larger RCTs. Insufficient data were available to determine which dressing type (transparent polyurethane or dry gauze dressing) has the lowest risk of catheter-related infections.

Polymicrobial peritonitis in peritoneal dialysis patients in Australia: predictors, treatment, and outcomes

BACKGROUND

The study aim was to examine the frequency, predictors, treatment, and clinical outcomes of peritoneal dialysis-associated polymicrobial peritonitis.

STUDY DESIGN

Observational cohort study using ANZDATA (The Australia and New Zealand Dialysis and Transplant Registry) data.

SETTING & PARTICIPANTS

All Australian peritoneal dialysis patients between October 2003 and December 2006.

PREDICTORS

Age, sex, race, body mass index, baseline renal function, late referral, kidney disease, smoking status, comorbidity, peritoneal permeability, center, state, organisms, and antibiotic regimen.

OUTCOMES & MEASUREMENTS

Polymicrobial peritonitis occurrence, relapse, hospitalization, catheter removal, hemodialysis transfer, and death.

RESULTS

359 episodes of polymicrobial peritonitis occurred in 324 individuals, representing 10% of all peritonitis episodes during 6,002 patient-years. The organisms isolated included mixed Gram-positive and Gram-negative organisms (41%), pure Gram-negative organisms (22%), pure Gram-positive organisms (25%), and mixed bacteria and fungi (13%). There were no significant independent predictors of polymicrobial peritonitis except for the presence of chronic lung disease. Compared with single-organism infections, polymicrobial peritonitis was associated with higher rates of hospitalization (83% vs 68%; P < 0.001), catheter removal (43% vs 19%; P < 0.001), permanent hemodialysis transfer (38% vs 15%; P < 0.001), and death (4% vs 2%; P = 0.03). Isolation of fungus or Gram-negative bacteria was the primary predictor of adverse clinical outcomes. Pure Gram-positive peritonitis had the best clinical outcomes. Patients who had their catheters removed >1 week after polymicrobial peritonitis onset were significantly more likely to be permanently transferred to hemodialysis therapy than those who had earlier catheter removal (92% vs 81%; P = 0.05).

LIMITATIONS

Limited covariate adjustment. Residual confounding and coding bias could not be excluded.

CONCLUSIONS

Polymicrobial peritonitis can be treated successfully using antibiotics alone without catheter removal in most cases, particularly when only Gram-positive organisms are isolated. Isolation of Gram-negative bacteria (with or without Gram-positive bacteria) or fungi carries a worse prognosis and generally should be treated with early catheter removal and appropriate antimicrobial therapy.

Mupirocin ointment for preventing Staphylococcus aureus infections in nasal carriers

BACKGROUND

Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is the leading nosocomial (hospital acquired) pathogen in hospitals throughout the world. Traditionally, control of S. aureus has been focused on preventing cross-infection between patients, however, it has been shown repeatedly that a large proportion of nosocomial S. aureus infections originate from the patient's own flora. Nasal carriage of S. aureus is now considered a well defined risk factor for subsequent infection in various groups of patients. Local antibiotic treatment with mupirocin ointment is often used to eradicate nasal S. aureus.

OBJECTIVES

To determine whether the use of mupirocin nasal ointment in patients with identified S. aureus nasal carriage reduced S. aureus infection rates.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched the Cochrane Wounds Group Specialised Register (May 2008), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL, Issue 2 2008), MEDLINE (1950 to May 2008), EMBASE (1980 to May 2008) and CINAHL (1982 to May 2008). To identify unpublished trials, abstract books from major scientific meetings (ICAAC, ESCMID and SHEA) were handsearched, researchers and manufacturers of mupirocin were contacted and other electronic databases were searched (SIGLE, ASLIB Index, mRCT, USA Clinical Trials).

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing nasal mupirocin with no treatment or placebo or alternative nasal treatment in the prevention of S. aureus infections in nasal S. aureus carriers were included.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Titles, abstracts and full-text articles of studies retrieved from the search process were independently assessed by two authors for inclusion. From included studies a data extraction form was made and the quality of the trial was assessed. The primary outcome was the S. aureus infection rate (any site). Secondary outcomes were time to infection, mortality, adverse events and infection rate caused by micro-organisms other than S. aureus.

MAIN RESULTS

Nine RCTs involving 3396 participants met the inclusion criteria. Patient populations varied and several types of nosocomial S. aureus infection were described including bacteraemia, exit-site infections, peritonitis, respiratory tract infections, skin infections, surgical site infections (SSI) and urinary tract infections. After pooling the eight studies that compared mupirocin with placebo or with no treatment, there was a statistically significant reduction in the rate of S. aureus infection associated with intranasal mupirocin (RR 0.55, 95% CI 0.43 to 0.70).A planned subgroup analysis of surgical trials demonstrated a significant reduction in the rate of nosocomial S. aureus infection rate associated with mupirocin use (RR 0.55, 95% CI 0.34 to 0.89) however this effect disappeared if the analysis only included surgical site infections caused by S. aureus (RR 0.63, 95% CI 0.38 to 1.04), possibly due to a lack of power. The infection rate caused by micro-organisms other than S. aureus was significantly higher in patients treated with mupirocin compared with control patients (RR 1.38 95% CI 1.118 to 1.72).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

In people who are nasal carriers of S. aureus, the use of mupirocin ointment results in a statistically significant reduction in S. aureus infections.

Associations of dialysis modality and infectious mortality in incident dialysis patients in Australia and New Zealand

BACKGROUND

The aim of the present investigation is to compare rates, types, causes, and timing of infectious death in incident peritoneal dialysis (PD) and hemodialysis (HD) patients in Australia and New Zealand.

STUDY DESIGN

Observational cohort study using the Australian and New Zealand Dialysis and Transplant Registry data.

SETTING & PARTICIPANTS

The study included all patients starting dialysis therapy between April 1, 1995, and December 31, 2005.

PREDICTOR

Dialysis modality.

OUTCOMES & MEASUREMENTS

Rates of and time to infectious death were compared by using Poisson regression, Kaplan-Meier, and competing risks multivariate Cox proportional hazards model analyses.

RESULTS

21,935 patients started dialysis therapy (first treatment PD, n = 6,020; HD, n = 15,915) during the study period, and 1,163 patients (5.1%) died of infectious causes (PD, 529 patients; 7.6% versus HD, 634 patients; 4.2%). Incidence rates of infectious mortality in PD and HD patients were 2.8 and 1.7/100 patient-years, respectively (incidence rate ratio PD versus HD, 1.66; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.47 to 1.86). After performing competing risks multivariate Cox analyses allowing for an interaction between time on study and modality because of identified nonproportionality of hazards, PD consistently was associated with increased hazard of death from infection compared with HD after 6 months of treatment (<6 months hazard ratio [HR], 1.08; 95% CI, 0.76 to 1.54; 6 months to 2 years HR, 1.31; 95% CI, 1.09 to 1.59; 2 to 6 years HR, 1.51; 95% CI, 1.26 to 1.80; >6 years HR, 2.76; 95% CI, 1.76 to 4.33). This increased risk of infectious death in PD patients was largely accounted for by an increased risk of death caused by bacterial or fungal peritonitis.

LIMITATIONS

Patients were not randomly assigned to their initial dialysis modality. Residual confounding and coding bias could not be excluded.

CONCLUSIONS

Dialysis modality selection significantly influences risks, types, causes, and timing of fatal infections experienced by patients with end-stage kidney disease in Australia and New Zealand.

Treatment for peritoneal dialysis-associated peritonitis

BACKGROUND

Peritonitis is a common complication of peritoneal dialysis (PD) and is associated with significant morbidity. Adequate treatment is essential to reduce morbidity and recurrence.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the benefits and harms of treatments for PD-associated peritonitis.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched the Cochrane Renal Group's specialised register, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL, in The Cochrane Library), MEDLINE, EMBASE and reference lists without language restriction. Date of search: February 2005

SELECTION CRITERIA

All randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs assessing the treatment of peritonitis in peritoneal dialysis patients (adults and children) evaluating: administration of an antibiotic(s) by different routes (e.g. oral, intraperitoneal, intravenous); dose of an antibiotic agent(s); different schedules of administration of antimicrobial agents; comparisons of different regimens of antimicrobial agents; any other intervention including fibrinolytic agents, peritoneal lavage and early catheter removal were included.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors extracted data on study quality and outcomes. Statistical analyses were performed using the random effects model and the dichotomous results were expressed as relative risk (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) and continuous outcomes as mean difference (WMD) with 95% CI.

MAIN RESULTS

We identified 36 studies (2089 patients): antimicrobial agents (30); urokinase (4), peritoneal lavage (1) intraperitoneal (IP) immunoglobulin (1). No superior antibiotic agent or combination of agents were identified. Primary response and relapse rates did not differ between IP glycopeptide-based regimens compared to first generation cephalosporin regimens, although glycopeptide regimens were more likely to achieve a complete cure (3 studies, 370 episodes: RR 1.66, 95% CI 1.01 to 3.58). For relapsing or persistent peritonitis, simultaneous catheter removal/replacement was superior to urokinase at reducing treatment failure rates (1 study, 37 patients: RR 2.35, 95% CI 1.13 to 4.91). Continuous IP and intermittent IP antibiotic dosing had similar treatment failure and relapse rates. IP antibiotics were superior to IV antibiotics in reducing treatment failure (1 study, 75 patients: RR 3.52, 95% CI 1.26 to 9.81). The methodological quality of most included studies was suboptimal and outcome definitions were often inconsistent. There were no RCTs regarding duration of antibiotics or timing of catheter removal.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Based on one study, IP administration of antibiotics is superior to IV dosing for treating PD peritonitis. Intermittent and continuous dosing of antibiotics are equally efficacious. There is no role shown for routine peritoneal lavage or use of urokinase. No interventions were found to be associated with significant harm.

Advances in renal replacement therapy as a bridge to renal transplantation

While renal transplantation remains the most prevalent treatment for children with end-stage renal disease, the majority of children incident to ESRD receive dialytic therapy prior to receiving a renal allograft and 25% of children are still receiving dialytic therapy 36 months after achieving ESRD. The current review discusses the most recent advancements in both hemodialysis and PD therapies to provide optimal care for children as a bridge until renal transplantation. Areas covered include dialysis dose assessment, target dry weight assessment, vascular access and advancements in PD technology.

Risk factors for peritonitis in pediatric peritoneal dialysis: a single-center study

Recent US registry data and a European multicenter study described increased risk of peritonitis in young children on peritoneal dialysis (PD). No underlying age-specific risk factors could be defined in these reports. Therefore, we analyzed risk factors for peritonitis in children treated by PD as primary renal replacement therapy at the Kinderdialyse, Vienna, and particularly searched for age-specific aspects. Thirty children (15 boys, mean age 4.6 years) received PD [21 automated peritoneal dialysis (APD), nine continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD)] for 13 months (3-49 months). During the total observation period of 395 dialysis months, 27 peritonitis episodes were diagnosed (1:14.6 months or 0.82/patient per year). Of our population, 43% remained peritonitis free; seven patients suffered from more than one peritonitis episode. Ten potential risk factors [age, gender, PD modality, duration of PD, exit-site status, urine volume, residual glomerular filtration rate (GFR), Kt/V, normalized protein catabolic rate (nPCR), albumin] and four indices of peritonitis outcome (peritonitis incidence, peritonitis burden, risk of suffering more than one episode of peritonitis and chance of staying free from peritonitis) were analyzed. Our study identified six risk factors in univariate analysis, namely age, APD treatment, exit-site infections, low urinary volume, low residual GFR and low nPCR, which were significantly correlated with two or more of the outcome indices. Multivariate analysis identified exit-site infection and residual urine volume as strong independent predictors. In summary, our study identified several age-dependent and age-independent risk factors for peritonitis in pediatric PD. These data demonstrate that the risk for peritonitis in small children is not pre-determined but might be open to therapeutic interventions, such as optimizing exit-site care, dialysis prescription and nutrition management.

Catheter type, placement and insertion techniques for preventing peritonitis in peritoneal dialysis patients

BACKGROUND

As many as 15-50% of end-stage kidney disease patients are on peritoneal dialysis (PD), but peritonitis limits its more widespread use. Several PD catheter-related interventions have been purported to reduce the risk of peritonitis in PD.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the use of catheter-related interventions for the prevention of peritonitis in PD.

SEARCH STRATEGY

The Cochrane Renal Group's specialised register (June 2004), The Cochrane CENTRAL Register of Controlled Trials (The Cochrane Library Issue 2 2004), MEDLINE (1966-April 2004), EMBASE (1988-April 2004) and reference lists were searched without language restriction

SELECTION CRITERIA

Trials comparing different catheter insertion techniques, catheter types, use of immobilisation techniques or different break in periods were included. Trials of different PD sets were excluded.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two reviewers independently assessed trial quality and extracted data. Statistical analyses were performed using a random effects model and the results expressed as relative risk (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).

MAIN RESULTS

Seventeen eligible trials (1089 patients) were identified, eight of surgical strategies of catheter insertion, eight of straight versus coiled catheters, one of single cuff versus double cuff catheters and one of an immobiliser device. The methodological quality was suboptimal. There were no significant differences with laparoscopy compared with laparotomy for peritonitis, the peritonitis rate, exit-site/tunnel infection or catheter removal/replacement. Standard insertion with resting but no subcutaneous burying of the catheter versus implantation and subcutaneous burying was not associated with a significant reduction in peritonitis rate, exit-site/tunnel infection rate or all-cause mortality. Midline compared to lateral insertion showed no significant difference in the risk of peritonitis or exit-site/tunnel infection. There was no significant difference in the risk of peritonitis, peritonitis rate, exit-site/tunnel infection, exit-site/tunnel infection rate or catheter removal/replacement between straight versus coiled intraperitoneal portion catheters. One trial compared single versus double cuffed catheters and showed no significant difference in the risk of peritonitis, exit-site/tunnel infection or catheter removal/replacement. One trial compared immobilisation versus no immobilisation of the PD catheter and showed no significant difference in the risk of peritonitis and exit-site/tunnel infection. No trials of different break-in periods were identified.

REVIEWERS' CONCLUSIONS

No major advantages from any of the catheter-related interventions which have been purported to reduce the risk of PD peritonitis could be demonstrated in this review. The frequency and quality of available trials are suboptimal.

Antimicrobial agents for preventing peritonitis in peritoneal dialysis patients

BACKGROUND

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is used as substitutive treatment of renal function in a large proportion (15-50%) of the end-stage kidney disease (ESRD) population. The major limitation is peritonitis which leads to technique failure, hospitalisation and increased mortality. Oral, nasal, topical antibiotic prophylaxis, exit-site disinfectants and other antimicrobial interventions are used to prevent peritonitis.

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this systematic review of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) was to evaluate what evidence supports the use of different antimicrobial approaches to prevent peritonitis in PD.

SEARCH STRATEGY

The Cochrane CENTRAL Registry (issue 1, 2004), MEDLINE (1966-May 2003), EMBASE (1988-May 2003) and reference lists were searched for RCTs of antimicrobial agents in PD.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Trials of the following agents were included: antibiotics by any route (oral, nasal, topical), exit-site disinfectants (chlorhexidine, povidone iodine, soap and water), vaccines, and ultraviolet germicidal devices.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two reviewers extracted data on the number of patients with one or more episodes and rates of peritonitis and exit-site/tunnel infection, catheter removal, catheter replacement, technique failure, toxicity of antibiotic treatments, all-cause mortality. Statistical analyses were performed using the random effects model and the results expressed as relative risk (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).

MAIN RESULTS

Nineteen trials, enrolling 1949 patients met our inclusion criteria. Nasal mupirocin compared with placebo significantly reduced the exit-site and tunnel infection rate (one trial, 2716 patient months, RR 0.58, 95% CI 0.40 to 0.85) but not peritonitis rate (one trial, 2716 patient months, RR 0.84, 95% CI 0.44 to 1.60). Perioperative intravenous antibiotics compared with no treatment significantly reduced the risk of early peritonitis (four trials, 335 patients, RR 0.35, 95% CI 0.15 to 0.80) but not exit site and tunnel infection (three trials, 114 patients, RR 0.32, 95% CI 0.02 to 4.81). No intervention reduced the risk of catheter removal or replacement.

REVIEWERS' CONCLUSIONS

This review demonstrates that nasal mupirocin reduces exit-site/tunnel infection but not peritonitis. Preoperative intravenous prophylaxis reduces early peritonitis but not exit-site/tunnel infection. No other antimicrobial interventions have proven efficacy. Given the large number of patients on PD and the importance of peritonitis, the lack of adequately powered RCTs to inform decision making about strategies to prevent peritonitis is striking.

Double bag or Y-set versus standard transfer systems for continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis in end-stage renal disease

BACKGROUND

Peritonitis is the most frequent serious complication of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). It has a major influence on the number of patients switching from CAPD to haemodialysis and has probably restricted the wider acceptance and uptake of CAPD as an alternative mode of dialysis.

OBJECTIVES

This systematic review sought to determine if modifications of the transfer set (Y-set or double bag systems) used in CAPD exchanges are associated with a reduction in peritonitis and an improvement in other relevant outcomes.

SEARCH STRATEGY

A broad search strategy was employed which attempted to identify all RCTs or quasi-RCTs relevant to the management of end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Five electronic databases were searched (Medline 1966-1999, EMBASE 1984-1999, CINAHL 1982-1996, BIOSIS 1985-1996 and the Cochrane Library), authors of included studies and relevant biomedical companies were contacted, reference lists of identified RCTs and relevant narrative reviews were screened and Kidney International 1980-1997 was hand searched.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised or quasi-randomised controlled trials comparing double bag, Y-set and standard CAPD exchange systems in patients with ESRD.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Data were abstracted by a single investigator onto a standard form and subsequently entered into Review Manager 4.0.4. Odds Ratio (OR) for dichotomous data and a (Weighted) Mean Difference (WMD) for continuous data were calculated with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI).

MAIN RESULTS

Twelve eligible trials with a total of 991 randomised patients were identified. In trials comparing either the Y-set or double bag systems with the standard systems significantly fewer patients (OR 0.33, 95% CI 0.24 to 0.46) experienced peritonitis and the number of patient-months on CAPD per episode of peritonitis were consistently greater. When the double bag systems were compared with the Y-set systems significantly fewer patients experienced peritonitis (OR 0.44, 95% CI 0.27 to 0.71) and the numbers of patient-months on CAPD/ episode of peritonitis were also greater.

REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS

Double bag systems should be the preferred exchange systems in CAPD.