Starch peritonitis following peritoneal dialysis.

Peritoneal dialysis is used frequently in the treatment of patients having renal failure. A 43-year-old patient developed acute abdominal symptoms 7 days after completion of peritoneal dialysis. Celiotomy demonstrated peritonitis with presence of starch powder. Resolution occurred rapidly after removal of the powder. Starch peritonitis after peritoneal dialysis can be obviated by careful washing of gloves. It can be managed without operative intervention. Peritonitis due to starch dusting powder can occur as a complication of peritoneal dialysis.