Exploration of ultrafiltration failure in peritoneal dialysis

Ultrafiltration failure (UFF) is a common complication of peritoneal dialysis (PD). It may be due to a technical problem ( PD catheter obstruction or migration, peritoneal leaks or intraperitoneal adhesions) or because of a peritoneal membrane alteration (hyperpermeability, aquaporin dysfunction, peritoneal sclerosis or enhanced lymphatic reabsorption). We, here, present the case of a patient who developed several consecutive PD complications that eventually led to UFF. We also present an algorithm, which may help clinicians to establish a precise etiological diagnosis of UFF. (c) 2008 Elsevier Masson SAS et Association Societe de Nephrologie. Tous droits reserves.