HOW TO EVALUATE THE ADEQUACY OF CHRONIC P ERITONEAL-DIALYSIS

Peritoneal dialysis adequacy in the narrowest sense of the world can b e evaluated by several indexes. Residual kidney function and caloric p rotein intake strongly affect the protein metabolism (creatinin, urea) they reflect. The correlation between dialysis adequacy indexes and c linical issue (survival, mortality and morbidity) is rather poor. Each index sets the inferior security limit, but in no way a target to be aimed at. Furthermore, the artificial organ should maintain a normal f luid and electrolyte balance and blood pressure, as performed by the n atural kidney. The posology indexes do not materialize this important function. No single indicator can replace clinical evaluation and good sense.