| [ Summary ] |
In Japan, the incidence of peritoneal dialysis (PD)-related peritonitis is gradually decreasing, making it comparable to the global average. However, problems persist including the fact that the main cause is unknown and the culture-negative rate is high.Culturing PD effluent is the most important step prior to commencing successful therapy. Blood culture bottles should be used and concentrate culture of the sediment should be performed.
In order to eliminate peritonitis, it is necessary to take countermeasures against contamination at the time of bag replacement, as well as intrinsic infection, tunnel/exit site infection, and to prevent trouble with catheters, such as breakage. While these countermeasures have been progressing, due to the increase in the number of elderly patients, traditional approaches focusing solely on reducing peritonitis are no longer sufficient. Rather, multi-faceted approaches such as the recognition and individualization of training practices for high-risk patients as well as community-based support programs are needed. |