Peritonitis in peritoneal dialysis patients - a diagnostic and therapeutical challenge

Continuous or chronic ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) has been widely accepted as safe and cost-effective treatment for end-stage chronic renal failure. It is well-known that peritonitis is the most common complication of CAPD. The majority of these cases of peritonitis have catheter-related etiology. Its clinical importance regarding the differential diagnosis of secondary peritonitis often make CAPD peritonitis a diagnostic and therapeutical challenge and significant medical issue. Due to its specific etiopathogenesis and management, peritoneal infection in CAPD patients should be considered as a separate entity and additional category in group of peritonitis. We review and present available information on etiopathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of this challenging condition. Prevention of peritonitis in patients undergoing CAPD requires intensive education regarding aseptic technique and catheter care.