ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION: Overhydration (OH) remains a recurrent problem in peritoneal dialysis (PD), with deleterious effect in outcomes. Recent evidence suggests a direct relation between OH and increased peritonitis risk. The mechanisms of this connection are not well defined, but gut wall edema and malnutrition are probably involved. METHODS: Our aim was to assess OH as a risk factor for peritonitis in patients on PD. Retrospective study was done in a PD program with a bio impedance analysis. The investigator reviewed patient charts and documents. The Fresenius® Body Composition Monitor was used to obtain hydration parameters. OH was considered when Overhydration/Extracellular Water (OH/ECW) parameter was over 15% of the dry weight. The diagnosis of peritonitis was made according to the International Society of Peritoneal Dialysis guidelines. Associations between peritonitis rate and the collected variables were assessed using Chi-square test and Pearson's correlation. RESULTS: An association between OH and the risk of peritonitis was established. CONCLUSION: OH is prevalent in our patients undergoing PD and it is a modifiable risk factor for peritonitis. The bio impedance analysis is economical and should be used in association with a physical exam and treatment results to achieve the normo-hydrated status in those patients.
