Metabolic effects of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis.

Prospective studies concerning protein, carbohydrate, and lipid metabolism were performed in 19 CAPD patients. After 2-4 months on CAPD the mean nitrogen balance was positive (3.14 +/- 1.98 g N/day) and was correlated with protein and energy intake as well as with the increase in body weight. Plasma free amino acid concentrations were normal, but the tyrosine/phenylalanine ratio was decreased compared with healthy subjects. In spite of the excessive glucose load, there was no further deterioration in glucose tolerance. Serum concentrations of TG and CHOL were increased due to a rise of VLDL-TG and VLDL-CHOL.