Long-Term Peritoneal Dialysis Using a Tenckhoff Catheter in a Premature Infant With Homozygous Autosomal Recessive Polycystic Kidney Disease: A Case Report

Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a clinical condition characterized by the presence of renal cysts and kidney enlargement. When it presents during the neonatal period, it can lead to progressive renal damage and eventually result in end-stage renal failure. Peritoneal dialysis (PD) can be particularly challenging in the neonatal intensive care unit due to the infant's thin abdominal wall and the often unsuitable size and shape of available catheters. As a result, the use of such catheters in infants is associated with high mortality and significant complications, including leakage, peritonitis, and hemoperitoneum. Here, we report our initial experience with Tenckhoff catheter placement and its management over 72 days in a premature newborn diagnosed with autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease. To the best of our knowledge, this is among the few reported cases where PD was successfully maintained with a Tenckhoff catheter for such an extended duration. Despite the challenges posed by low body weight and a thin abdominal wall, PD remains a relatively effective and feasible treatment option for neonates with renal failure.