BMJ Supportive and Palliative Care, Volume 15, Issue 6, Pages 714-721 , 01/11/2025

End stage kidney disease – palliative peritoneal dialysis programs: narrative review

Atthaphong Phongphithakchai, Phongsak Dandecha, Sukit Raksasuk, Moragot Chatatikun, Thatsaphan Srithongkul

Abstract

Background End-stage kidney disease (ESKD) significantly impacts global public health, driven by an ageing population and increased chronic diseases. Over half of patients with ESKD are now over 65 years old, often with multiple comorbidities, complicating management and prognosis. The socioeconomic impact is considerable, and patients with ESKD face higher cancer risks. The interplay of kidney failure, cancer risk and comorbidities underscores the need for integrated care, including palliative care. Palliative peritoneal dialysis (PD) focuses on patient comfort, quality of life and autonomy, integrating palliative principles into dialysis. Objective This review aim to help construct palliative PD programmes for patients with ESKD in th end stage of life. Design A comprehensive review of existing literature on palliative care integretion in dialysis with emphasis on PD. Methods and data sources This review synthesized evidence from 37 reference encompassing the rationale,infrastructure, clinical protocols and reported outcome of palliative PD the implementation, challenges and benefits of palliative PD. Findings Palliative PD supports patient-centred care with flexible treatment schedules and reduces the physical burdens of in-centre dialysis. Key components include shre decision-making, symptom control and patient autonomy. Effective implementation requires training healthcare providers and fostering multidixciplinary collaboration. Conclusion Palliative PD represents a shift in treating advanced kidney disease, highlighting the importance of symptom relief, psychological support and patient empowerment.

Document Type

Review

Source Type

Journal

Keywords

Palliative CareQuality of life

ASJC Subject Area

Medicine : Medicine (miscellaneous)Nursing : Oncology (nursing)Nursing : Medical and Surgical Nursing



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Citations (Scopus)

Bibliography


Phongphithakchai, A., Dandecha, P., Raksasuk, S., Chatatikun, M., & Srithongkul, T. (2025). End stage kidney disease – palliative peritoneal dialysis programs: narrative review. BMJ Supportive and Palliative Care, 15(6) 714-721. doi:10.1136/spcare-2025-005608

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