O. Donmez - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by O. Donmez

Research paper thumbnail of Effects of nutritional vitamin D supplementation on markers of bone and mineral metabolism in children with chronic kidney disease

Nephrology, dialysis, transplantation : official publication of the European Dialysis and Transplant Association - European Renal Association, Jan 21, 2018

We investigated the effects of nutritional vitamin D supplementation on markers of bone and miner... more We investigated the effects of nutritional vitamin D supplementation on markers of bone and mineral metabolism, i.e. serum levels of fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23), Klotho, bone alkaline phosphatase (BAP) and sclerostin, in two cohorts with chronic kidney disease (CKD). In all, 80 vitamin D-deficient children were selected: 40 with mild to moderate CKD from the ERGO study, a randomized trial of ergocalciferol supplementation [estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) 55 mL/min/1.73 m2], and 40 with advanced CKD from the observational Cardiovascular Comorbidity in Children with Chronic Kidney Disease (4C) study (eGFR 24 mL/min/1.73 m2). In each study, vitamin D supplementation was started in 20 children and 20 matched children not receiving vitamin D served as controls. Measures were taken at baseline and after a median period of 8 months. Age- and gender-related standard deviation scores (SDSs) were calculated. Before vitamin D supplementation, children in the ERGO study had ...

Research paper thumbnail of Developing of a new scale for assessing the adherence to colchicine treatment in pediatric patients with FMF

Pediatric Rheumatology, 2015

Yesilkaya et al.: Developing of a new scale for assessing the adherence to colchicine treatment i... more Yesilkaya et al.: Developing of a new scale for assessing the adherence to colchicine treatment in pediatric patients with FMF.

Research paper thumbnail of Hyperprostaglandin E syndrome: use of indomethacin and steroid, and death due to necrotizing enterocolitis and sepsis

The Turkish journal of pediatrics

Hyperprostaglandin E syndrome (HPS) is the antenatal variant of Bartter syndrome and characterize... more Hyperprostaglandin E syndrome (HPS) is the antenatal variant of Bartter syndrome and characterized by polyhydramnios and preterm delivery in the antenatal period and salt-wasting, isosthenuric or hyposthenuric polyuria, hypercalciuria and nephrocalcinosis in the postnatal period. We report a one-month-old infant with HPS with a 15-year-old sister with Bartter syndrome. The infant's birth weight was 2750 g and she had severe dehydration on the 2nd day of life. She had hypercalcemia, hyponatremia, hypokalemia, metabolic alkalosis and elevated plasma renin and aldosterone levels. We instituted indomethacin therapy accompanied by steroid therapy for hypercalcemia. However, the patient developed abdominal distention on the 30th day, which was due to diffuse pneumatosis in sigmoid colon revealed by a subsequent surgical intervention. Following surgery, the patient developed fever, electrolyte abnormalities and subsequently sepsis. The patient died due to sepsis 10 days after surgery. ...

Research paper thumbnail of Catheter-related complications in children on chronic peritoneal dialysis

Advances in peritoneal dialysis. Conference on Peritoneal Dialysis, 2005

Catheter-related complications--including infection, dialysate leak, subcutaneous leak, outflowfa... more Catheter-related complications--including infection, dialysate leak, subcutaneous leak, outflowfailure, and malfunction--are the principal causes of peritoneal dialysis (PD) failure. In the present retrospective study, we evaluated the catheter-related complications that occurred in children at our facility who were started on chronic PD during the period from July 1997 to August 2004. During the study period, 72 catheters were placed in 53 patients (28 girls, 25 boys). The average follow-up period was 29.4 + 19.3 months. Catheter-related complications developed in 41 patients. The risk for subcutaneous dialysate leak was no more significant when PD catheters were used early (< or = 7 days post placement) than when use was delayed (>7 days). Similarly, no significant difference was observed in the infection rate between the early- and delayed-use groups. During the study, 87 episodes of peritonitis occurred in 39 patients (1 episode / 18 patient-months). The infection rate was...

Research paper thumbnail of Examining Communication Patterns of Group Discussions in an Online Environment by Discourse Analysis

In this study, computer mediated discourse analysis was used in order to investigate what kinds o... more In this study, computer mediated discourse analysis was used in order to investigate what kinds of communication patterns that students show in an online learning environment. The sample was consisted of 45 students participated in an online discussion forum. After a two-week implementation period, group 3, which was considered as the most active group, was selected out of 6 groups. Messages were categorized according to their topics and focuses in order to determine how group members interacted to complete the task and what the levels of the group’s decision making process were. Later, the messages were grouped under the specific categories according to their functions and the communication patterns reflecting these categories were analyzed. As a result, it was found out that most of the discussions were related to the task; but, the members of the group did not do any research about the topics. Instead, they used their own knowledge and experience in the discussions. Similarly, it was stated that although the participants completed knowledge sharing process, they didn’t experience knowledge creation process. In addition, it was found that all the group members were participated in the discussions and communicated with each other with reciprocal respect.

Research paper thumbnail of Congenital nephrotic syndrome of NPHS1 associated with cardiac malformation

Pediatrics International, 2015

Congenital nephrotic syndrome (CNS) is a rare disease inherited as an autosomally recessive trait... more Congenital nephrotic syndrome (CNS) is a rare disease inherited as an autosomally recessive trait and defined as proteinuria manifesting at birth or in the first 3 months of life. The classical form is the Finnish type of CNS (CNF), which is caused by mutations in the nephrin gene (NPHS1). The classical findings include prematurity, large placenta and massive proteinuria. Minor cardiac findings have been reported as a minor functional disorder but CNS with major cardiac malformation is rare. Here we report the case of a Turkish child with CNS with small indel mutation (c.614_621delCACCCCGGinsTT) in exon 6 of NPHS1 and also major cardiac malformation who did not develop end-stage renal disease until the age of 5 years.

Research paper thumbnail of FMF50: A score for assessing outcome in familial Mediterranean fever

Colchicine is the main treatment for familial Mediterranean fever (FMF). However, biological agen... more Colchicine is the main treatment for familial Mediterranean fever (FMF). However, biological agents and other treatments are available for patients who are unable to receive optimal treatment. To develop outcome criteria that define response to treatment. Two rounds of Delphi exercise were followed by a consensus conference enabling the definition of the criteria to be employed. Data for patients with FMF responding and resistant to their treatment were obtained from the FMF Arthritis Vasculitis and Orphan disease Research in paediatric rheumatology (FAVOR) website. The suggested criteria were analysed and validated in this patient cohort. Sensitivity/specificity measures and the ability of the score to discriminate between patients with active and inactive disease via the best cut-off score were calculated by a receiver operating characteristic analysis. Compliance with the maximum dose of the drug was considered essential for evaluation of the patients. Seven criteria were suggested in the consensus conference. The performance of each criterion, in differentiating between resistant and responsive patients, was tested. The final set of criteria was defined as at least 50% improvement in five of six criteria, without worsening in any one defined response to treatment with a very high sensitivity and specificity. The items of this FMF50 included: 1. Percentage change in the frequency of attacks with the treatment. 2. Percentage change in the duration of attacks with the treatment. 3. Patients/parents&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#39; global assessment of disease severity (10 cm visual analogue scale (VAS)). 4. Physicians&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#39; global assessment of disease severity (10 cm VAS). 5. Percentage change in arthritis attacks with the treatment. 6. Percentage change in C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate or serum amyloid A level with the treatment. The FMF50 produced is a user-friendly measurement tool to guide physicians and can be used in clinical trials.

Research paper thumbnail of Hereditary renal tubular disorders in Turkey: demographic, clinical, and laboratory features

Clinical and Experimental Nephrology, 2010

The Turkish Renal Tubular Disorders Working Group aimed to form a patient registry database and g... more The Turkish Renal Tubular Disorders Working Group aimed to form a patient registry database and gathered demographic, clinical, and laboratory data in various hereditary renal tubular disorders (HRTDs). A questionnaire comprising HRTDs was sent to the centers. The cohort was composed of 226 patients (109 girls, 117 boys). The distribution of patients according to HRTD was as follows: 45.6% distal renal tubular acidosis (dRTA), 26.6% proximal RTA (pRTA), 3.5% type IV RTA, 21.7% Bartter&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#39;s syndrome, and 2.6% Gitelman&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#39;s syndrome. Cystinosis was the most common cause for renal Fanconi syndrome. Age at diagnosis was between 1 month and 16 years. Overall consanguinity rate was as high as 72%. Rate of affected siblings was 28.5%. pRTA and type IV RTA were more common in males. Most common presenting symptoms were failure to thrive, lack of appetite, and vomiting. Nephropathic cystinosis was the most common HRTD leading to renal failure, followed by dRTA. Hearing loss was present in 23% of patients with dRTA and 6.3% of patients with Bartter&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#39;s syndrome. No other patient had hearing loss. Convulsions were noted in Bartter&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#39;s syndrome patients with failure to thrive, especially in those with height below 3%. Polyuria and nephrocalcinosis were more common in dRTA patients with deafness compared with patients without deafness. This data reflected a high number of HRTDs as a result of high consanguinity rate in Turkey. Our data serve as a database of demographic, clinical, and laboratory features of this rare disease group.

Research paper thumbnail of PW01-025 – Definition of colchicine resistance in FMF

Pediatric Rheumatology, 2013

Research paper thumbnail of PReS-FINAL-2213: Validation of inadequate drug response and definition of colchicum resistance in FMF

Pediatric Rheumatology, 2013

Research paper thumbnail of Chronic peritoneal dialysis in Turkish children: a multicenter study

Pediatric Nephrology, 2005

Chronic peritoneal dialysis (CPD) has been utilized in the treatment of children since 1989 in Tu... more Chronic peritoneal dialysis (CPD) has been utilized in the treatment of children since 1989 in Turkey. The aims of this study were to summarize our experience with CPD in children and to establish a pediatric registry data system in Turkey. Standard questionnaires were sent to all pediatric CPD centers. 514 patients treated between 1989 and 2002 in 12 pediatric centers were enrolled in the study. Reflux nephropathy was the most common (18.1%) cause of renal failure. Mean age at dialysis initiation was 10.1€4.6 years. Mean duration of dialysis was 24.1€20.5 months. Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) was the first CPD modality for 476 (92.6%) patients, 142 of whom switched to automated peritoneal dialysis (APD) during follow-up. Currently, 47.3% of the patients are still on CPD, 15.4% were transplanted, 13.2% switched to hemodialysis, 16.7% died. The patient and technique survivals were 90% and 95% at one year and 70% and 69% at five years, respectively. The survival was significantly shorter in the youngest age group (0-24 months) compared to those in older age groups (p=0.000). We herein report the first results of the TUPEPD study providing information on demographic data and survival of pediatric CPD patients. As opposed to clear recommendations in favor of APD, there is a clear preponderance of CAPD in our pediatric CPD population. That vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is still the leading cause of renal failure is a distressing finding. Remarkably lower survival rates and transplantation ratios are as striking and distressing as the high incidence of VUR among the causes of ESRD. We conclude that we must make a great effort to achieve better results and to change these undesirable events.

Research paper thumbnail of Worldwide variation of dialysis-associated peritonitis in children

Kidney International, 2007

Peritonitis is the most common cause of dialysis failure in children on chronic peritoneal dialys... more Peritonitis is the most common cause of dialysis failure in children on chronic peritoneal dialysis. We performed a prospective study of 501 peritonitis episodes in 44 pediatric dialysis centers located in 14 countries that examined peritonitis etiology, efficiency of opinion-based management guidelines, and final outcomes. Culture-negative incidence varied significantly from 11% in North America to 67% in Mexico. Argentina and North America had the highest rate of Gram-negative episodes. Pseudomonas-based peritonitis was eightfold more common in the United States than in Europe, and correlated with the frequency of exit site cleansing and topical mupirocin administration. Significant regional variation in antibiotic susceptibility was noted for the first generation cephalosporins and aminoglycosides. Initial response rates to standardized empiric antibiotic treatment did not differ between regions; however, final outcomes were significantly less favorable in Eastern Europe. The wide regional variation in culture-negative peritonitis, and the distribution and antibiotic susceptibilities of causative bacteria needs to be taken into consideration when the guidelines for empiric therapy of pediatric dialysis-associated peritonitis are revised.

Research paper thumbnail of Peritonitis in Children Who Receive Long-Term Peritoneal Dialysis: A Prospective Evaluation of Therapeutic Guidelines

Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, 2007

In children who are on chronic peritoneal dialysis, peritonitis is the primary complication compr... more In children who are on chronic peritoneal dialysis, peritonitis is the primary complication compromising technique survival, and the optimal therapy of peritonitis remains uncertain. An Internet-based International Pediatric Peritonitis Registry was established in 47 pediatric centers from 14 countries to evaluate the efficacy and safety of largely opinion-based peritonitis treatment guidelines in which empiric antibiotic therapy was stratified by disease severity. Among a total of 491 episodes of nonfungal peritonitis entered into the registry, Gram-positive organisms were cultured in 44%, Gram-negative organisms were cultured in 25%, and cultures remained negative in 31% of the episodes. In vitro evaluation revealed 69% sensitivity of Grampositive organisms to a first-generation cephalosporin and 80% sensitivity of Gram-negative organisms to a third-generation cephalosporin. Neither the risk factors assumed by the guidelines nor the choice of empiric therapy was predictive of either the early treatment response or the final functional outcome of the peritonitis episodes. Overall, 89% of cases achieved full functional recovery, a portion after relapsing peritonitis (9%). These data serve as the basis for new evidence-based guidelines. Modification of empiric therapy to include aminoglycosides should be considered.

Research paper thumbnail of Long-Term Neurologic and Psychomotor Sequelae After Neonatal Tetanus

Journal of Child Neurology, 1997

... The Denver Developmental Screening Test gave normal results for 2 of the 16 children less tha... more ... The Denver Developmental Screening Test gave normal results for 2 of the 16 children less than 6 years of age. ... Mehmet Okan, MD Mustafa Hacimustafaoglu, MD Ibrahim Ildirim, MD Osman D&ouml;nmez, MD Ozgen Eralp, MD E. T&uuml;lay Ozer, EdPsych Department of ...

Research paper thumbnail of Childhood vasculitides in Turkey: a nationwide survey

Clinical Rheumatology, 2006

The aims of this study were to evaluate the characteristics of childhood vasculitides and to esta... more The aims of this study were to evaluate the characteristics of childhood vasculitides and to establish the first registry in Turkey, an eastern Mediterranean country with a white population. Patients and methods: A questionnaire was distributed to the main referral centers asking for the registration of the Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) patients in the last calendar year only and 5 years for other vasculitides. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data were assessed. Results: Vasculitic diseases were registered from 15 pediatric centers. These centers had a fair representation throughout the country. In the last calendar year, incidences were as follows: HSP 81.6%, Kawasaki disease (KD) 9.0%, childhood polyarteritis nodosa (C-PAN) 5.6%, Takayasu arteritis (TA) 1.5%, Wegener's granulomatosis 0.4%, and Behçet disease 1.9%. There was no clear gender dominance. The mean age was 11.05±4.89 years. Acute phase reactants were elevated in almost all, highest figures being in C-PAN. Renal involvement was present in 28.6% of HSP and 53% of the C-PAN patients. Abdominal aorta was involved in all TA patients. Among the C-PAN patients, 25% had microscopic PAN with necrotizing glomerulonephritis; antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody was positive in those who were studied. Among the patients, 12.5% and 15% had classic PAN and cutaneous PAN, respectively. The remaining majority were classified as systemic C-PAN diagnosed with biopsies and/or angiograms demonstrating small to midsize artery involvement. The overall prognosis was better than reported in adult series. Conclusion: This is the largest multicenter study defining the demographic data for

Research paper thumbnail of Hyperprostaglandin E syndrome: use of indomethacin and steroid, and death due to necrotizing enterocolitis and sepsis

… Turkish Journal of …, 2008

Hyperprostaglandin E syndrome (HPS) is the antenatal variant of Bartter syndrome and characterize... more Hyperprostaglandin E syndrome (HPS) is the antenatal variant of Bartter syndrome and characterized by polyhydramnios and preterm delivery in the antenatal period and salt-wasting, isosthenuric or hyposthenuric polyuria, hypercalciuria and nephrocalcinosis in the postnatal period. We report a onemonth-old infant with HPS with a 15-year-old sister with Bartter syndrome. The infant's birth weight was 2750 g and she had severe dehydration on the 2nd day of life. She had hypercalcemia, hyponatremia, hypokalemia, metabolic alkalosis and elevated plasma renin and aldosterone levels. We instituted indomethacin therapy accompanied by steroid therapy for hypercalcemia. However, the patient developed abdominal distention on the 30th day, which was due to diffuse pneumatosis in sigmoid colon revealed by a subsequent surgical intervention. Following surgery, the patient developed fever, electrolyte abnormalities and subsequently sepsis. The patient died due to sepsis 10 days after surgery. We conclude that indomethacin and steroid therapy must be used cautiously in infants with HPS.

Research paper thumbnail of Pseudoxanthoma elasticum: a rare cause of hypertension in children

Pediatric …, 1998

Abstract. We describe an 11-year-old girl with severe renin-dependent hypertension. She had chara... more Abstract. We describe an 11-year-old girl with severe renin-dependent hypertension. She had characteristic cutaneous, ocular, and vascular signs of pseudoxanthoma elasticum (PXE), and the diagnosis was confirmed histologically. Because PXE is a heterogeneous ...

Research paper thumbnail of Chronic peritoneal dialysis in Turkish children: a multicenter study

Pediatric …, 2005

Chronic peritoneal dialysis (CPD) has been utilized in the treatment of children since 1989 in Tu... more Chronic peritoneal dialysis (CPD) has been utilized in the treatment of children since 1989 in Turkey. The aims of this study were to summarize our experience with CPD in children and to establish a pediatric registry data system in Turkey. Standard questionnaires were ...

Research paper thumbnail of Worldwide variation of dialysis-associated peritonitis in children

Peritonitis is the most common cause of dialysis failure in children on chronic peritoneal dialys... more Peritonitis is the most common cause of dialysis failure in children on chronic peritoneal dialysis. We performed a prospective study of 501 peritonitis episodes in 44 pediatric dialysis centers located in 14 countries that examined peritonitis etiology, efficiency of opinion-based management guidelines, and final outcomes. Culture-negative incidence varied significantly from 11% in North America to 67% in Mexico. Argentina and North America had the highest rate of Gram-negative episodes. Pseudomonas-based peritonitis was eightfold more common in the United States than in Europe, and correlated with the frequency of exit site cleansing and topical mupirocin administration. Significant regional variation in antibiotic susceptibility was noted for the first generation cephalosporins and aminoglycosides. Initial response rates to standardized empiric antibiotic treatment did not differ between regions; however, final outcomes were significantly less favorable in Eastern Europe. The wide regional variation in culture-negative peritonitis, and the distribution and antibiotic susceptibilities of causative bacteria needs to be taken into consideration when the guidelines for empiric therapy of pediatric dialysis-associated peritonitis are revised.

Research paper thumbnail of Peritonitis in children who receive long-term peritoneal dialysis: a prospective evaluation of therapeutic guidelines

In children who are on chronic peritoneal dialysis, peritonitis is the primary complication compr... more In children who are on chronic peritoneal dialysis, peritonitis is the primary complication compromising technique survival, and the optimal therapy of peritonitis remains uncertain. An Internet-based International Pediatric Peritonitis Registry was established in 47 pediatric centers from 14 countries to evaluate the efficacy and safety of largely opinion-based peritonitis treatment guidelines in which empiric antibiotic therapy was stratified by disease severity. Among a total of 491 episodes of nonfungal peritonitis entered into the registry, Gram-positive organisms were cultured in 44%, Gram-negative organisms were cultured in 25%, and cultures remained negative in 31% of the episodes. In vitro evaluation revealed 69% sensitivity of Grampositive organisms to a first-generation cephalosporin and 80% sensitivity of Gram-negative organisms to a third-generation cephalosporin. Neither the risk factors assumed by the guidelines nor the choice of empiric therapy was predictive of either the early treatment response or the final functional outcome of the peritonitis episodes. Overall, 89% of cases achieved full functional recovery, a portion after relapsing peritonitis (9%). These data serve as the basis for new evidence-based guidelines. Modification of empiric therapy to include aminoglycosides should be considered.

Research paper thumbnail of Effects of nutritional vitamin D supplementation on markers of bone and mineral metabolism in children with chronic kidney disease

Nephrology, dialysis, transplantation : official publication of the European Dialysis and Transplant Association - European Renal Association, Jan 21, 2018

We investigated the effects of nutritional vitamin D supplementation on markers of bone and miner... more We investigated the effects of nutritional vitamin D supplementation on markers of bone and mineral metabolism, i.e. serum levels of fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23), Klotho, bone alkaline phosphatase (BAP) and sclerostin, in two cohorts with chronic kidney disease (CKD). In all, 80 vitamin D-deficient children were selected: 40 with mild to moderate CKD from the ERGO study, a randomized trial of ergocalciferol supplementation [estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) 55 mL/min/1.73 m2], and 40 with advanced CKD from the observational Cardiovascular Comorbidity in Children with Chronic Kidney Disease (4C) study (eGFR 24 mL/min/1.73 m2). In each study, vitamin D supplementation was started in 20 children and 20 matched children not receiving vitamin D served as controls. Measures were taken at baseline and after a median period of 8 months. Age- and gender-related standard deviation scores (SDSs) were calculated. Before vitamin D supplementation, children in the ERGO study had ...

Research paper thumbnail of Developing of a new scale for assessing the adherence to colchicine treatment in pediatric patients with FMF

Pediatric Rheumatology, 2015

Yesilkaya et al.: Developing of a new scale for assessing the adherence to colchicine treatment i... more Yesilkaya et al.: Developing of a new scale for assessing the adherence to colchicine treatment in pediatric patients with FMF.

Research paper thumbnail of Hyperprostaglandin E syndrome: use of indomethacin and steroid, and death due to necrotizing enterocolitis and sepsis

The Turkish journal of pediatrics

Hyperprostaglandin E syndrome (HPS) is the antenatal variant of Bartter syndrome and characterize... more Hyperprostaglandin E syndrome (HPS) is the antenatal variant of Bartter syndrome and characterized by polyhydramnios and preterm delivery in the antenatal period and salt-wasting, isosthenuric or hyposthenuric polyuria, hypercalciuria and nephrocalcinosis in the postnatal period. We report a one-month-old infant with HPS with a 15-year-old sister with Bartter syndrome. The infant's birth weight was 2750 g and she had severe dehydration on the 2nd day of life. She had hypercalcemia, hyponatremia, hypokalemia, metabolic alkalosis and elevated plasma renin and aldosterone levels. We instituted indomethacin therapy accompanied by steroid therapy for hypercalcemia. However, the patient developed abdominal distention on the 30th day, which was due to diffuse pneumatosis in sigmoid colon revealed by a subsequent surgical intervention. Following surgery, the patient developed fever, electrolyte abnormalities and subsequently sepsis. The patient died due to sepsis 10 days after surgery. ...

Research paper thumbnail of Catheter-related complications in children on chronic peritoneal dialysis

Advances in peritoneal dialysis. Conference on Peritoneal Dialysis, 2005

Catheter-related complications--including infection, dialysate leak, subcutaneous leak, outflowfa... more Catheter-related complications--including infection, dialysate leak, subcutaneous leak, outflowfailure, and malfunction--are the principal causes of peritoneal dialysis (PD) failure. In the present retrospective study, we evaluated the catheter-related complications that occurred in children at our facility who were started on chronic PD during the period from July 1997 to August 2004. During the study period, 72 catheters were placed in 53 patients (28 girls, 25 boys). The average follow-up period was 29.4 + 19.3 months. Catheter-related complications developed in 41 patients. The risk for subcutaneous dialysate leak was no more significant when PD catheters were used early (< or = 7 days post placement) than when use was delayed (>7 days). Similarly, no significant difference was observed in the infection rate between the early- and delayed-use groups. During the study, 87 episodes of peritonitis occurred in 39 patients (1 episode / 18 patient-months). The infection rate was...

Research paper thumbnail of Examining Communication Patterns of Group Discussions in an Online Environment by Discourse Analysis

In this study, computer mediated discourse analysis was used in order to investigate what kinds o... more In this study, computer mediated discourse analysis was used in order to investigate what kinds of communication patterns that students show in an online learning environment. The sample was consisted of 45 students participated in an online discussion forum. After a two-week implementation period, group 3, which was considered as the most active group, was selected out of 6 groups. Messages were categorized according to their topics and focuses in order to determine how group members interacted to complete the task and what the levels of the group’s decision making process were. Later, the messages were grouped under the specific categories according to their functions and the communication patterns reflecting these categories were analyzed. As a result, it was found out that most of the discussions were related to the task; but, the members of the group did not do any research about the topics. Instead, they used their own knowledge and experience in the discussions. Similarly, it was stated that although the participants completed knowledge sharing process, they didn’t experience knowledge creation process. In addition, it was found that all the group members were participated in the discussions and communicated with each other with reciprocal respect.

Research paper thumbnail of Congenital nephrotic syndrome of NPHS1 associated with cardiac malformation

Pediatrics International, 2015

Congenital nephrotic syndrome (CNS) is a rare disease inherited as an autosomally recessive trait... more Congenital nephrotic syndrome (CNS) is a rare disease inherited as an autosomally recessive trait and defined as proteinuria manifesting at birth or in the first 3 months of life. The classical form is the Finnish type of CNS (CNF), which is caused by mutations in the nephrin gene (NPHS1). The classical findings include prematurity, large placenta and massive proteinuria. Minor cardiac findings have been reported as a minor functional disorder but CNS with major cardiac malformation is rare. Here we report the case of a Turkish child with CNS with small indel mutation (c.614_621delCACCCCGGinsTT) in exon 6 of NPHS1 and also major cardiac malformation who did not develop end-stage renal disease until the age of 5 years.

Research paper thumbnail of FMF50: A score for assessing outcome in familial Mediterranean fever

Colchicine is the main treatment for familial Mediterranean fever (FMF). However, biological agen... more Colchicine is the main treatment for familial Mediterranean fever (FMF). However, biological agents and other treatments are available for patients who are unable to receive optimal treatment. To develop outcome criteria that define response to treatment. Two rounds of Delphi exercise were followed by a consensus conference enabling the definition of the criteria to be employed. Data for patients with FMF responding and resistant to their treatment were obtained from the FMF Arthritis Vasculitis and Orphan disease Research in paediatric rheumatology (FAVOR) website. The suggested criteria were analysed and validated in this patient cohort. Sensitivity/specificity measures and the ability of the score to discriminate between patients with active and inactive disease via the best cut-off score were calculated by a receiver operating characteristic analysis. Compliance with the maximum dose of the drug was considered essential for evaluation of the patients. Seven criteria were suggested in the consensus conference. The performance of each criterion, in differentiating between resistant and responsive patients, was tested. The final set of criteria was defined as at least 50% improvement in five of six criteria, without worsening in any one defined response to treatment with a very high sensitivity and specificity. The items of this FMF50 included: 1. Percentage change in the frequency of attacks with the treatment. 2. Percentage change in the duration of attacks with the treatment. 3. Patients/parents&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#39; global assessment of disease severity (10 cm visual analogue scale (VAS)). 4. Physicians&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#39; global assessment of disease severity (10 cm VAS). 5. Percentage change in arthritis attacks with the treatment. 6. Percentage change in C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate or serum amyloid A level with the treatment. The FMF50 produced is a user-friendly measurement tool to guide physicians and can be used in clinical trials.

Research paper thumbnail of Hereditary renal tubular disorders in Turkey: demographic, clinical, and laboratory features

Clinical and Experimental Nephrology, 2010

The Turkish Renal Tubular Disorders Working Group aimed to form a patient registry database and g... more The Turkish Renal Tubular Disorders Working Group aimed to form a patient registry database and gathered demographic, clinical, and laboratory data in various hereditary renal tubular disorders (HRTDs). A questionnaire comprising HRTDs was sent to the centers. The cohort was composed of 226 patients (109 girls, 117 boys). The distribution of patients according to HRTD was as follows: 45.6% distal renal tubular acidosis (dRTA), 26.6% proximal RTA (pRTA), 3.5% type IV RTA, 21.7% Bartter&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#39;s syndrome, and 2.6% Gitelman&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#39;s syndrome. Cystinosis was the most common cause for renal Fanconi syndrome. Age at diagnosis was between 1 month and 16 years. Overall consanguinity rate was as high as 72%. Rate of affected siblings was 28.5%. pRTA and type IV RTA were more common in males. Most common presenting symptoms were failure to thrive, lack of appetite, and vomiting. Nephropathic cystinosis was the most common HRTD leading to renal failure, followed by dRTA. Hearing loss was present in 23% of patients with dRTA and 6.3% of patients with Bartter&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#39;s syndrome. No other patient had hearing loss. Convulsions were noted in Bartter&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#39;s syndrome patients with failure to thrive, especially in those with height below 3%. Polyuria and nephrocalcinosis were more common in dRTA patients with deafness compared with patients without deafness. This data reflected a high number of HRTDs as a result of high consanguinity rate in Turkey. Our data serve as a database of demographic, clinical, and laboratory features of this rare disease group.

Research paper thumbnail of PW01-025 – Definition of colchicine resistance in FMF

Pediatric Rheumatology, 2013

Research paper thumbnail of PReS-FINAL-2213: Validation of inadequate drug response and definition of colchicum resistance in FMF

Pediatric Rheumatology, 2013

Research paper thumbnail of Chronic peritoneal dialysis in Turkish children: a multicenter study

Pediatric Nephrology, 2005

Chronic peritoneal dialysis (CPD) has been utilized in the treatment of children since 1989 in Tu... more Chronic peritoneal dialysis (CPD) has been utilized in the treatment of children since 1989 in Turkey. The aims of this study were to summarize our experience with CPD in children and to establish a pediatric registry data system in Turkey. Standard questionnaires were sent to all pediatric CPD centers. 514 patients treated between 1989 and 2002 in 12 pediatric centers were enrolled in the study. Reflux nephropathy was the most common (18.1%) cause of renal failure. Mean age at dialysis initiation was 10.1€4.6 years. Mean duration of dialysis was 24.1€20.5 months. Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) was the first CPD modality for 476 (92.6%) patients, 142 of whom switched to automated peritoneal dialysis (APD) during follow-up. Currently, 47.3% of the patients are still on CPD, 15.4% were transplanted, 13.2% switched to hemodialysis, 16.7% died. The patient and technique survivals were 90% and 95% at one year and 70% and 69% at five years, respectively. The survival was significantly shorter in the youngest age group (0-24 months) compared to those in older age groups (p=0.000). We herein report the first results of the TUPEPD study providing information on demographic data and survival of pediatric CPD patients. As opposed to clear recommendations in favor of APD, there is a clear preponderance of CAPD in our pediatric CPD population. That vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is still the leading cause of renal failure is a distressing finding. Remarkably lower survival rates and transplantation ratios are as striking and distressing as the high incidence of VUR among the causes of ESRD. We conclude that we must make a great effort to achieve better results and to change these undesirable events.

Research paper thumbnail of Worldwide variation of dialysis-associated peritonitis in children

Kidney International, 2007

Peritonitis is the most common cause of dialysis failure in children on chronic peritoneal dialys... more Peritonitis is the most common cause of dialysis failure in children on chronic peritoneal dialysis. We performed a prospective study of 501 peritonitis episodes in 44 pediatric dialysis centers located in 14 countries that examined peritonitis etiology, efficiency of opinion-based management guidelines, and final outcomes. Culture-negative incidence varied significantly from 11% in North America to 67% in Mexico. Argentina and North America had the highest rate of Gram-negative episodes. Pseudomonas-based peritonitis was eightfold more common in the United States than in Europe, and correlated with the frequency of exit site cleansing and topical mupirocin administration. Significant regional variation in antibiotic susceptibility was noted for the first generation cephalosporins and aminoglycosides. Initial response rates to standardized empiric antibiotic treatment did not differ between regions; however, final outcomes were significantly less favorable in Eastern Europe. The wide regional variation in culture-negative peritonitis, and the distribution and antibiotic susceptibilities of causative bacteria needs to be taken into consideration when the guidelines for empiric therapy of pediatric dialysis-associated peritonitis are revised.

Research paper thumbnail of Peritonitis in Children Who Receive Long-Term Peritoneal Dialysis: A Prospective Evaluation of Therapeutic Guidelines

Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, 2007

In children who are on chronic peritoneal dialysis, peritonitis is the primary complication compr... more In children who are on chronic peritoneal dialysis, peritonitis is the primary complication compromising technique survival, and the optimal therapy of peritonitis remains uncertain. An Internet-based International Pediatric Peritonitis Registry was established in 47 pediatric centers from 14 countries to evaluate the efficacy and safety of largely opinion-based peritonitis treatment guidelines in which empiric antibiotic therapy was stratified by disease severity. Among a total of 491 episodes of nonfungal peritonitis entered into the registry, Gram-positive organisms were cultured in 44%, Gram-negative organisms were cultured in 25%, and cultures remained negative in 31% of the episodes. In vitro evaluation revealed 69% sensitivity of Grampositive organisms to a first-generation cephalosporin and 80% sensitivity of Gram-negative organisms to a third-generation cephalosporin. Neither the risk factors assumed by the guidelines nor the choice of empiric therapy was predictive of either the early treatment response or the final functional outcome of the peritonitis episodes. Overall, 89% of cases achieved full functional recovery, a portion after relapsing peritonitis (9%). These data serve as the basis for new evidence-based guidelines. Modification of empiric therapy to include aminoglycosides should be considered.

Research paper thumbnail of Long-Term Neurologic and Psychomotor Sequelae After Neonatal Tetanus

Journal of Child Neurology, 1997

... The Denver Developmental Screening Test gave normal results for 2 of the 16 children less tha... more ... The Denver Developmental Screening Test gave normal results for 2 of the 16 children less than 6 years of age. ... Mehmet Okan, MD Mustafa Hacimustafaoglu, MD Ibrahim Ildirim, MD Osman D&ouml;nmez, MD Ozgen Eralp, MD E. T&uuml;lay Ozer, EdPsych Department of ...

Research paper thumbnail of Childhood vasculitides in Turkey: a nationwide survey

Clinical Rheumatology, 2006

The aims of this study were to evaluate the characteristics of childhood vasculitides and to esta... more The aims of this study were to evaluate the characteristics of childhood vasculitides and to establish the first registry in Turkey, an eastern Mediterranean country with a white population. Patients and methods: A questionnaire was distributed to the main referral centers asking for the registration of the Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) patients in the last calendar year only and 5 years for other vasculitides. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data were assessed. Results: Vasculitic diseases were registered from 15 pediatric centers. These centers had a fair representation throughout the country. In the last calendar year, incidences were as follows: HSP 81.6%, Kawasaki disease (KD) 9.0%, childhood polyarteritis nodosa (C-PAN) 5.6%, Takayasu arteritis (TA) 1.5%, Wegener's granulomatosis 0.4%, and Behçet disease 1.9%. There was no clear gender dominance. The mean age was 11.05±4.89 years. Acute phase reactants were elevated in almost all, highest figures being in C-PAN. Renal involvement was present in 28.6% of HSP and 53% of the C-PAN patients. Abdominal aorta was involved in all TA patients. Among the C-PAN patients, 25% had microscopic PAN with necrotizing glomerulonephritis; antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody was positive in those who were studied. Among the patients, 12.5% and 15% had classic PAN and cutaneous PAN, respectively. The remaining majority were classified as systemic C-PAN diagnosed with biopsies and/or angiograms demonstrating small to midsize artery involvement. The overall prognosis was better than reported in adult series. Conclusion: This is the largest multicenter study defining the demographic data for

Research paper thumbnail of Hyperprostaglandin E syndrome: use of indomethacin and steroid, and death due to necrotizing enterocolitis and sepsis

… Turkish Journal of …, 2008

Hyperprostaglandin E syndrome (HPS) is the antenatal variant of Bartter syndrome and characterize... more Hyperprostaglandin E syndrome (HPS) is the antenatal variant of Bartter syndrome and characterized by polyhydramnios and preterm delivery in the antenatal period and salt-wasting, isosthenuric or hyposthenuric polyuria, hypercalciuria and nephrocalcinosis in the postnatal period. We report a onemonth-old infant with HPS with a 15-year-old sister with Bartter syndrome. The infant's birth weight was 2750 g and she had severe dehydration on the 2nd day of life. She had hypercalcemia, hyponatremia, hypokalemia, metabolic alkalosis and elevated plasma renin and aldosterone levels. We instituted indomethacin therapy accompanied by steroid therapy for hypercalcemia. However, the patient developed abdominal distention on the 30th day, which was due to diffuse pneumatosis in sigmoid colon revealed by a subsequent surgical intervention. Following surgery, the patient developed fever, electrolyte abnormalities and subsequently sepsis. The patient died due to sepsis 10 days after surgery. We conclude that indomethacin and steroid therapy must be used cautiously in infants with HPS.

Research paper thumbnail of Pseudoxanthoma elasticum: a rare cause of hypertension in children

Pediatric …, 1998

Abstract. We describe an 11-year-old girl with severe renin-dependent hypertension. She had chara... more Abstract. We describe an 11-year-old girl with severe renin-dependent hypertension. She had characteristic cutaneous, ocular, and vascular signs of pseudoxanthoma elasticum (PXE), and the diagnosis was confirmed histologically. Because PXE is a heterogeneous ...

Research paper thumbnail of Chronic peritoneal dialysis in Turkish children: a multicenter study

Pediatric …, 2005

Chronic peritoneal dialysis (CPD) has been utilized in the treatment of children since 1989 in Tu... more Chronic peritoneal dialysis (CPD) has been utilized in the treatment of children since 1989 in Turkey. The aims of this study were to summarize our experience with CPD in children and to establish a pediatric registry data system in Turkey. Standard questionnaires were ...

Research paper thumbnail of Worldwide variation of dialysis-associated peritonitis in children

Peritonitis is the most common cause of dialysis failure in children on chronic peritoneal dialys... more Peritonitis is the most common cause of dialysis failure in children on chronic peritoneal dialysis. We performed a prospective study of 501 peritonitis episodes in 44 pediatric dialysis centers located in 14 countries that examined peritonitis etiology, efficiency of opinion-based management guidelines, and final outcomes. Culture-negative incidence varied significantly from 11% in North America to 67% in Mexico. Argentina and North America had the highest rate of Gram-negative episodes. Pseudomonas-based peritonitis was eightfold more common in the United States than in Europe, and correlated with the frequency of exit site cleansing and topical mupirocin administration. Significant regional variation in antibiotic susceptibility was noted for the first generation cephalosporins and aminoglycosides. Initial response rates to standardized empiric antibiotic treatment did not differ between regions; however, final outcomes were significantly less favorable in Eastern Europe. The wide regional variation in culture-negative peritonitis, and the distribution and antibiotic susceptibilities of causative bacteria needs to be taken into consideration when the guidelines for empiric therapy of pediatric dialysis-associated peritonitis are revised.

Research paper thumbnail of Peritonitis in children who receive long-term peritoneal dialysis: a prospective evaluation of therapeutic guidelines

In children who are on chronic peritoneal dialysis, peritonitis is the primary complication compr... more In children who are on chronic peritoneal dialysis, peritonitis is the primary complication compromising technique survival, and the optimal therapy of peritonitis remains uncertain. An Internet-based International Pediatric Peritonitis Registry was established in 47 pediatric centers from 14 countries to evaluate the efficacy and safety of largely opinion-based peritonitis treatment guidelines in which empiric antibiotic therapy was stratified by disease severity. Among a total of 491 episodes of nonfungal peritonitis entered into the registry, Gram-positive organisms were cultured in 44%, Gram-negative organisms were cultured in 25%, and cultures remained negative in 31% of the episodes. In vitro evaluation revealed 69% sensitivity of Grampositive organisms to a first-generation cephalosporin and 80% sensitivity of Gram-negative organisms to a third-generation cephalosporin. Neither the risk factors assumed by the guidelines nor the choice of empiric therapy was predictive of either the early treatment response or the final functional outcome of the peritonitis episodes. Overall, 89% of cases achieved full functional recovery, a portion after relapsing peritonitis (9%). These data serve as the basis for new evidence-based guidelines. Modification of empiric therapy to include aminoglycosides should be considered.