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Peritoneal Dialysis Fluid (PD Fluid) Analysis for Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures certain substances in your peritoneal dialysis fluid to help monitor how well your dialysis is working and check for any complications.

Quick summary

Your PD fluid analysis helps track fluid balance, waste removal, and potential infections or chemical imbalances during CAPD.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
64351-0
Short code
INCENTERPATIENTSINSELFDIALYSISCONTINUOUSAMBULATORYPERITONEALDIALYSISCAPD
Synonyms
—
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What Does This Test Measure?

Your PD fluid may be tested for electrolytes (like sodium, potassium, and chloride), glucose levels, protein content, and sometimes specific markers for infection or inflammation. These tests help assess how well waste is being removed and whether your fluid balance is stable.

Why Is This Test Important?

Regular PD fluid analysis helps your healthcare team adjust your dialysis settings to prevent complications such as fluid overload, electrolyte imbalances, or infections. It also helps ensure your dialysis is effectively removing waste products from your blood.

How Is the Sample Collected?

A nurse or healthcare provider will collect a sample of your PD fluid after you’ve drained it from your abdomen. This fluid is collected during or after a typical CAPD exchange. The sample is sent to the lab for testing.

What Might Affect Results?

Several factors could influence your PD fluid test results, including recent changes in your dialysis solution, infection in your peritoneal cavity, recent meals (especially high-protein or high-sodium foods), or changes in your fluid balance. Always inform your healthcare team about any recent changes in your diet or medications.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

PD Fluid Profile

Frequently asked questions

How often should I expect this test?
The frequency of this test depends on your healthcare provider’s recommendations. For CAPD patients, some may test PD fluid more frequently during initial adjustments or if they experience symptoms like swelling, pain, or changes in energy levels.
What do abnormal results mean?
Abnormal results may indicate issues such as an infection (like peritonitis), improper fluid balance, or problems with your dialysis solution. Your provider will discuss these findings with you and adjust your care plan accordingly.
Can I prepare for this test?
No special preparation is needed for this test. However, inform your healthcare team about any recent changes in your diet, medications, or symptoms before your next test.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy