Abstract
Background and aims: Peritoneal dialysis (PD) remains underutilized despite being a valid alternative to hemodialysis. This study evaluated the clinical profile, technique survival, and mortality of patients at Morocco’s first PD center.Methods: We retrospectively studied 247 patients treated with PD from June 2006 to May 2025, without exclusion. Data came from the RDPLF registry and medical records. Statistical methods included t-tests, ANOVA, chi-square tests, and stepwise backward logistic regression, including variables with p < 0.05 in univariate analysis.Results: Among 247 patients, 233 (94.3%) chose PD as their renal replacement therapy. Mean age was 47.5 ± 17.3 years; 62.7% male; 25.4% diabetic. Median follow-up was 4.0 years (IQR 2.0–7.0). Technique survival at 1, 3, and 5 years was 90%, 55%, and 45%, respectively; patient survival was 88%, 65%, and 50%. Peritonitis incidence was 0.48 episodes/patient-year and was the main cause of technique failure (53.6%) and contributed to 11.9% of deaths.Logistic regression showed technique failure associated with diabetes (p = 0.038). Mortality was linked to age > 60 (p = 0.022), vascular access failure (p = 0.013), and assisted PD (p = 0.003). Hypoalbuminemia (p = 0.281), anemia (p = 0.176), and hypophosphatemia (p = 0.223) were not significant.Conclusions: PD is a viable long-term renal replacement therapy in Morocco. Mortality is associated with advanced age, vascular access failure, and assisted PD. Ongoing patient education and staff training remain essential.Keywords: Peritoneal dialysis, Peritonitis, Mortality, Technique failure