[Comparison of clinical outcomes in peritoneal dialysis and hemodialysis].

In addition to kidney transplantation, peritoneal dialysis (PD) and hemodialysis represent two options for renal replacement therapy in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Given that most patients are suitable for both types of dialysis and that many of them require lifelong therapy, differences in clinical outcome between these treatments are of major interest. Differences between the two dialysis treatments have been described in single clinical aspects (e.g., hyperkalemia, volume status, blood pressure control, cardiac complications), the relevance of which are reflected by mortality rates. Data available so far indicate that overall outcome of patients with ESRD is comparable in the two types of dialysis. However, there are significant differences in subgroups of patients, such as those with diabetes or coronary heart disease. In order to achieve the best possible survival and quality of life in ESRD, the optimal sequence of dialysis treatments during the course of renal replacement therapy, rather than a single type of treatment, has to be considered. The "integrated care concept" takes into account this sequence of dialysis treatments, suggesting that patients should start on PD but be transferred to hemodialysis as soon as PD is no longer adequate. This concept allows longer preservation of residual renal function, better early survival on dialysis and better short-term results of graft survival after kidney transplantation. Thus, if medically suitable, PD should be the first treatment option in patients with ESRD who need renal replacement therapy.