Evidence for Biocompatible Peritoneal Dialysis Solutions

Glucose-based peritoneal dialysis (PD) solutions are the mainstay of therapy for PD patients, yet are accompanied by a number of adverse effects and potential complications. The high glucose content can cause both systemic effects, such as hyperglycaemia, as well as local effects on the peritoneal membrane, which can interfere with its function. In addition, glucose degradation products (GDPs) generated during heat sterilization of the solutions and the acidic pH at which these solutions are kept have been shown to cause peritoneal membrane injury and precipitate inflow pain, respectively. As a result, biocompatible PD solutions, characterized by neutral pH and low GDP concentrations, have been developed. However, the published evidence supporting their use has often been conflicting and of variable methodological quality. This review aims to discuss the relevant literature and up-to-date evidence for the use of biocompatible PD solutions.