| Theme |
Reconsidering dialysis initiation for the elderly |
| Title |
Choice of dialysis type in consideration of age : hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis |
| Author |
Kazuhiro Yoshikawa |
Division of Nephrology, Iwate Prefectural Central Hospital |
| Author |
Jun Minakuchi |
Kawashima Hospital |
| [ Summary ] |
The aging of the hemodialysis (HD) population is a concerning issue. Many characteristics, including social backgrounds vary from patient to patient. Therefore, choosing a dialysis type by just applying normative formulas is too facile for the elderly population. The elderly population is not included in most clinical research using clinical guidelines. It is doubtful whether the recommendation in the guidelines can be simply adopted to the elderly. We must understand the guidelines thoroughly. Regarding the fact that the advantages and disadvantages of HD and peritoneal dialysis (PD) for the elderly population are quite different from those for the young. We must make wise choices for individual elderly patients based on particular circumstances. |