What is peritonitis, and how is it treated in peritoneal dialysis patients?

Peritonitis is defined as an infection of the peritoneal cavity, which is the space within the abdomen that contains the abdominal organs. It is a significant complication for patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis, as the procedure involves the introduction of a dialysis solution into this cavity through a catheter. This procedure can increase the risk of infection.

When peritonitis occurs, it is crucial to initiate prompt treatment to prevent serious complications. The standard treatment involves administering antibiotics, which are often given directly into the peritoneal cavity (intraperitoneally) or through intravenous means, depending on the severity of the infection and the patient's overall health. The selection of antibiotics typically targets the specific bacteria that commonly cause peritonitis.

Understanding the nature of peritonitis and the necessity of antibiotic treatment highlights the importance of monitoring patients for signs of infection, such as abdominal pain, cloudy dialysate, and fever, allowing for early intervention and effective management of this potentially serious condition.