Intraperitoneal Nutrition Associated with Improved Albumin Levels in Malnourished Patients on Peritoneal Dialysis

Background: Malnutrition and hypoalbuminemia occur in 30%-50% of people receiving peritoneal dialysis (PD) which is associated with poor quality of life and poor health outcomes including increased risk of peritonitis and increased hospitalizations. Evidence suggests improving albumin levels by 0.1g/dL to 0.2g/dL can reduce the frequency of malnutrition-related challenges. Intraperitoneal nutrition (IPN) is a unique form of PD solution designed to help correct malnutrition. IPN is a combination of amino acids and dextrose that provides ultrafiltration while allowing amino acids to infuse during the dwell time to improve protein synthesis and replace protein lost during PD. IPN is commonly provided as a once daily, one-for-one replacement of a standard dialysis solution in the patients PD regimen. Methods: Thirteen patients on automated PD who started on IPN therapy in 2021 were randomly selected and albumin was compared from baseline to measurements at month 3 and month 6 of IPN therapy. Results: A t-test was run and found the results to be statistically significant at both 3 and 6 months, 0.002 and 0.0004 respectively. Conclusion: PD results in varying protein losses and has common side effects resulting in diminished appetite and poor oral protein intake leading to malnutrition. Malnutrition contributes to poor quality of life and costly adverse health outcomes for patients. IPN provides a non-invasive, low burden option to help correct malnutrition. Funding: Commercial Support - Patient Care America