What is the most common complication of peritoneal dialysis?

• A. Clot formation
• B. Infection
• C. Hyperkalemia
• D. Air embolism

Answer: (B)

In peritoneal dialysis, infection, especially peritonitis, is the most common complication. The dialysis fluid sits in the peritoneal cavity, and the catheter provides a route for bacteria from the skin or GI tract to enter. Any breach in sterile technique during exchanges or an infected exit site can introduce bacteria, leading to cloudy dialysate, abdominal pain, fever, and other signs of infection. Treating this promptly with intraperitoneal antibiotics and reinforcing aseptic technique is essential to prevent further episodes and preserve technique viability. Clotting around the catheter, electrolyte issues like hyperkalemia, and rare events such as air embolism can occur, but they are much less common than infection.