Quality of life in patients on peritoneal dialysis: a 12-month longitudinal study

Abstract

Background: Quality of life (QOL) impairments are common in dialysis and are associated with higher morbidity and mortality, but little is known about the course of outcomes overtime, especially for patients on peritoneal dialysis (PD). This study sought to investigate QOL across 12 months in PD. Methods: 115 PD patients completed the SF-12 and Kidney Disease Quality of Life Short Form at baseline and 12 months later. Intra-individual changes in Physical (PCS), Mental (MCS), and Kidney Disease Component Summary scores (KDCS) were identified based on the minimally important clinical difference threshold. Findings: PCS and MCS remained stable. Significant decreases were noted for KDCS-total, patient satisfaction and staff encouragement while the effects of kidney disease improved. While for most QOL remained stable, 23–48% had deteriorating QOL; No sociodemographic or medical variables were found to be associated with course of outcomes. Discussion: Although PD offers the convenience of home-based care, it is associated with diminishing perceived quality-of-care. This highlights the need for improving health service and care for patients on home-based dialysis.