Peritoneal dialysis therapy for patients with liver and renal failure with ascites.

Two patients with severe liver disease complicated with ascites were recently treated at our institution. Both rapidly developed renal failure. In one patient, liver disease was the result of alcohol abuse, and in the other, was due to malnutrition associated with obesity and acute weight loss. The only reasonable therapeutic approach for these patients was believed to be a course of peritoneal dialysis, along with other supportive measures. In both cases, the management was successful. Furthermore, it was possible to discontinue dialysis at the time of discharge. We conclude that peritoneal dialysis can be a life-saving procedure in patients with severe liver disease and ascites complicated by renal failure.