Update on the challenging role of biofilms in peritoneal dialysis

Abstract

Biofilms are commonly associated with an increased risk of patient infection. In peritoneal dialysis (PD), catheter associ- ated infection, especially peritonitis, remains a clinically relevant problem. Although the presence of a biofilm is recog- nized in relapsing, repeat, and catheter-related peritonitis, it remains poorly characterized. In this review, an update on the role of biofilms in PD infections is presented. The emerging concept that host cells and tissue associated biofilms, in addition to the biofilms on the catheters themselves, contribute to the recalcitrance of infections is discussed. Further- more, the evidence of biofilms on PD catheters, their developmental stages, and the possible influence of the PD envi- ronment are reviewed. The focus is given to ex vivo and in vitro studies that contribute to the elucidation of the interplay between host, microbial, and dialysis factors. The key issues that are still to be answered and the challenges to clinical practice are discussed.