Atypical Pathogen-Induced Peritoneal Dialysis-Associated Peritonitis: A Case Series and Infection Source Analysis

Objective To analyze the clinical characteristics and trace the source of peritoneal dialysis-related peritonitis (PDAP) caused by rare bacteria, in order to better prevent the occurrence of such peritonitis. Methods A retrospective pathogenetic analysis was conducted on PDAP patients admitted to the peritoneal dialysis center of Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital from January 2021 to March 2024, with detailed reports on 8 cases of atypical pathogen infections. Results Our peritoneal dialysis center reported 51 cases of peritonitis, 8 of which were due to unusual bacteria. Rare bacterias detected by routine culture include Gemella morbillorum , Pseudomonas luteola , Leuconostoc pseudomesenteroides subsp , Lactococcus raffinola ctis , Gemella Haemolysans , Streptococcus sanguinis , Bacillus cereus , Kocuria and et al. The primary contributing factors were identified as noncompliance with aseptic techniques, unhygienic dietary practices, and suboptimal home dialysis environments. Following targeted antibiotic therapy and comprehensive clinical care guidance, none of the patients experienced recurrence of peritonitis. Conclusion In PDAP, infections caused by rare pathogens are not uncommon. For infections caused by rare bacteria, environmental contamination, inadequate hand hygiene, and procedural failures remain significant contributing factors to disease. Timely diagnosis, accurate etiological analysis, and proactive identification of the source of infection are crucial for effective treatment and prevention of peritonitis recurrence.