| [ Summary ] |
The adequacy of peritoneal dialysis (PD) should be regularly evaluated in terms of the removal of accumulated waste products and state of hydration. The efficacy of peritoneal dialysis is determined by weekly Kt/V urea evaluations. Values should be maintained at a minimum of 1.7 in terms of combined clearance of urea both in the kidneys and the peritoneum. Whether keeping of Kt/V urea levels at 1.7 or higher is beneficial in terms of patient survival rates for PD is not obscure. To elucidate adequate dialysis in Japan, we initiated a multicenter prospective cohort study in 2009. We found that there are significant differences in gender, urine volume, and laboratory data including serum phosphate and beta-2 microglobulin levels between patients with Kt/V urea levels of 1.7 or greater and those under 1.7. Moreover, there are significant differences in duration of PD, renal Kt/V levels, causes of chronic kidney disease, and laboratory data including serum phosphate and beta-2 microglobulin levels between patients with daily urinary volumes of 400 mL or greater and those with less than 400 mL. Further studies such as survival analysis according to Kt/V urea levels and residual renal function will be necessary to elucidate parameters for adequate dialysis of PD patients and choosing suitable patients for PD in Japan. |