The method of calculating the numeric value of the KT/V index in the evaluation of effectiveness of peritoneal dialysis

BACKGROUND: For evaluation of the adequacy of peritoneal and haemodialyzation treatment the BP/V index is used. In the literature there is so far no uniform view on the procedure of calculation. The objective was to test whether and to what extent the results of different procedures differ. METHODS AND RESULTS: The authors demonstrated that the method of calculation of this index has a marked impact on the result. The greatest discrepancy was due to differences in the distribution volume of urea (or total body water) where the mean difference was 10% of the absolute value. Also the procedure used to assess the residual renal function can influence the result. Differences due to the method of collection of the dialysate for assessment of the urea concentration are insignificant. The mean difference between the maximal and minimal BP/V index, when different methods of calculation are used, was in the same patient 0.45, which is cca 25% of the total value. CONCLUSIONS: The BP/V index must be assessed always by the same method with maximum accuracy. When presenting results or comparing results of different departments, the method of calculation must be stated.