Deterioration of Peripheral Nerve Function during Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis

Abstract

Peripheral neuropathy during CAPD, was investigated in 27 nondiabetic patients at the start of CAPD and after a mean of 24 months on CAPD with measurements of nerve conduction velocity (NCV) and vibratory perception threshold (VT). The clinical signs of neuropathy were quantified according to a fixed protocol. During the study period, motor NCV decreased 7% in the median nerve, and 9% in the peroneal nerve (p < 0.05); VT increased 45% in the hand (p < 0.01), and 135% on the foot (p < 0.001); and the clinical status improved in five and deteriorated in 14 patients (NS). We conclude (1) that the neuropathy may deteriorate during CAPD, although it remains mild in most instances, and (2) that the most characteristic finding is a markedly impaired vibratory sensitivity.