Residual renal function - One of the factors associated with arterial stiffness in peritoneal dialysis patients

Background: Arterial stiffness as determined by brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) has been demonstrated to predict cardiovascular events or mortality in patients with end-stage renal disease. Peritoneal function and residual renal function (RRF) both are important for patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis (PD). No association has yet been established between arterial stiffness, and RRF and peritoneal function in patients undergoing PD. Methods: 146 PD patients received PD lasting over 4 months. baPWV was determined using an automated, non-invasive, waveform analysis device. Results: This retrospective study revealed independent correlations between baPWV and mean arterial pressure, age, status of diabetes mellitus and RRF as well as an inverse correlation with body mass index. Conclusion: This retrospective study showed that arterial stiffness is independently correlated with RRF. Interestingly, peritoneal function test is not associated with baPWV value. Copyright (c) 2008 S. Karger AG, Basel.