Compatibility of Peritoneal Dialysis Fluids Containing Alternative Osmotic Agents with Cells Present in the Peritoneal Cavity

Abstract

The success of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) lies in preserving the peritoneum as a dialyzing membrane. Repeated infusions of nonphysiological fluids are potentially detrimental to the peritoneal membrane and its host defense. The disadvantages of the currently used peritoneal dialysis fluids (PDPs) containing glucose as an osmotic agent (short ultrafiltration profile, systemic carbohydrate load, nonphysiological composition) have stimulated the search for alternative, less toxic osmotic agents devoid of metabolic side effects and capable of sustaining ultrafiltration. PDFs containing glycerol, amino acids, or glucose polymers have had clinical usage in CAPD patients and were reviewed with regard to their compatibility with cells present in the peritoneal cavity. Overall, glycerol appears to have no advantage over glucose-based PDFs, although it is less inhibitory for mesothelial cell proliferationin vitro. The optimum formulation of amino acid-based PDFs has not yet been established; its lactate and specific amino acid content may limit their biocompatibility. The virtually iso-osmolar glucose polymer (icodextrin)-containing PDFs were associated with improved biocompatibility compared to glucose monomer-based solutions. Modifications of PDFs towards a more balanced salt solution with a neutral pH may further increase their compatibility with peritoneal host defense as well as with the integrity of the mesothelial membrane. Such improvement in PDF biocompatibility may result in clinical benefit, that is, enhanced resistance to infection and preservation of peritoneal ultrafiltration capacity.