The Effect of Hemoglobin Concentration on Peritoneal Mass Transfer and Drain Volumes in Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis

Abstract

Objective

To determine whether a correlation exists between hemoglobin levels and peritoneal mass transfer or drain volumes in continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) patients.

Design

Prospective study of two groups of CAPD patients, identified on the basis of their stable hemoglobin levels. Group A -hemoglobin less than 8.5 g/dL; Group B hemoglobin greater than 10.5 g/dL. Peritoneal mass transfer and drain volumes were measured for each patient, after which a subgroup of Group A was treated with rHuEPO (forming Group C) and measurements repeated once hemoglobin had risen by at least 2.0 g/dL.

Setting

Single renal unit of a university teaching hospital. Patients:Twenty-seven patients established on CAPD, selected according to their stable hemoglobin level. Group A -14 patients; Group B -13 patients; Group C (subgroup of A) -8 patients.

Main outcome measures

Difference between peritoneal mass transfer or drain volume in Group A versus Group B, and in Group C before and after rHuEPO therapy. Serum biochemical parameters in Group C before and after rHuEPO therapy.

Results

No statistically significant differences in any of the parameters measured were found between groups A and B, or before and after rHuEPO therapy in Group C.

Conclusions

Peritoneal transfer of small solutes and water is not influenced by hemoglobin level, and does not change following otherwise effective treatment with rHuEPO.