Researchers from Keele University and Cardiff University in the UK have uncovered the link between systemic and peritoneal inflammation and PD patient survival. In peritoneal dialysis (PD), the peritoneum, a semi-permeable membrane in the abdomen, is used to filter the wastes, salts, and excess fluids from the bloodstream. According to the statistics, only 1 PD patient in 10 survives over 10 years on dialysis. A patient’s risk of death increases with age and other factors. Peritoneal dialysis patients with diabetes have a 30% increased risk of death.
In this 12-year study involving more than 1500 patients from the UK, Korea, and Canada, the scientists identified systemic and peritoneal inflammation as separate processes with differing effects on the health of the peritoneal membrane and patient survival. They found that inflammation in the body was associated with survival. Local inflammation in the peritoneal cavity was linked to membrane function, but did not affect overall survival. Preventing and fighting the different types of inflammation could lead to better outcomes and improved survival for PD patients.
Sources:
Landmark Study Provides Key to Improved Survival in Peritoneal Dialysis Patients, HealthCanal, September 21, 2013
Abstract:
Independent Effects of Systemic and Peritoneal Inflammation on Peritoneal Dialysis Survival, Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, September 5, 2013