Peritoneal Dialysis: A Life-Saving Measure in an Infant with a Single Functioning Kidney

Abstract

Background: Peritoneal dialysis is a clinical procedure performed to assist functions of the failing kidney. Its application in modern clinical practice is gradually curtailed by hemodialysis, a system with a robust technology. Case Report: This case describes an infant with primary urolithiasis whose parents refused for any medical evaluation until the infant came to medical attention again at seven months of age in a tertiary medical center in northern Malaysia. At that point, his left kidney was already non-functional. He presented with severe acute-on-chronic renal failure with profound electrolyte imbalances resulting in status epilepticus and cardiac dysrhythmia. He was contiguously planned for further diagnostic and therapeutic surgical intervention but due to his unstable condition, he was not able to be transferred to a referral center for the definitive care. Peritoneal dialysis was subsequently done in our center and delivered an excellent outcome. The patient was later safely transferred for definitive care. Conclusion: Peritoneal dialysis proves to be a cheap, safe and cost-effective method in the management of severe acute kidney injury in an infant with a single functioning kidney. Despite being a rudimentary technique, peritoneal dialysis proves beneficial in situation where pediatric surgical expertise is lacking.