Effect of common salt on granulomas at exit sites of peritoneal dialysis catheters: A prospective study

Background Granulomas at the exit sites of peritoneal dialysis (PD) catheters are common among patients undergoing PD and cause pain, discomfort, and infections. Few studies have explored non-pharmacological interventions that can be performed at home. This study examined the effectiveness of common salt in improving these granulomas in such patients. Methods This prospective study examined patients undergoing PD who had exit-site granulomas and no acute infections. The 55 eligible patients were allocated to a common salt group ( n = 31) or a salt-and-vinegar mixture group ( n = 24) based on their preference. The outcome indicators were the Exit-Site Scoring System (ESSS) score, time until granuloma resolution, and adverse reactions. Results There was a significant difference in the number of participants with complete resolution of granulomas between the two groups on day 7 post-intervention (T3). The resolution rate in the common salt group was significantly higher than that in the salt-and-vinegar mixture group (adjusted odds ratio = 0.04; 95% confidence interval: 0.00–0.44, p = 0.008). Generalized estimating equation analysis indicated that on day 3 post-intervention (T2), the ESSS score in the common salt group was significantly better than that in the salt-and-vinegar mixture group ( β = −1.148, p = 0.002). No adverse reactions were observed in either group throughout the entire study period. Conclusion Common salt appears to be an effective non-pharmacological home intervention for the removal of granulomas at the exit sites of PD catheters without adverse reactions, although it should be implemented after evaluation by a healthcare professional and in the absence of acute infection.