Peritoneal dialysis solutions low in glucose degradation products--evidence for clinical benefits.

In Japan, two types of new peritoneal dialysis fluid (PDF) are ordinarily used: two-chambered PDF, and icodextrin PDF. Two-chambered PDF has several biocompatible characteristics, one being low glucose degradation products (GDPs). Of the several GDPs in PDF, 3,4-dideoxyglucosone-3-ene (3,4-DGE) is thought to be strongly associated with the cytotoxicity of standard PDF. Using a PDF low in GDPs may reduce exposure of the peritoneum to 3,4-DGE, helping to preserve peritoneal function in PD patients. Additionally, use of a PDF low in GDPs may reduce plasma levels of advanced glycosylation end-products in PD patients, a change that may help to preserve vascular function in PD patients. Peritoneal rest for 24 hours after exposure to a PDF with low GDPs improves the activity of human peritoneal mesothelial cells. As compared with the use of standard PDF, the use of low-GDP PDF in combination therapy (peritoneal dialysis plus hemodialysis) may more effectively preserve peritoneal function. The new PDF low in GDPs has biocompatible characteristics relative to peritoneum and system that may help to preserve peritoneal function or reduce complications such as atherosclerosis or dialysis-related amyloidosis in dialysis patients.