Summary:Glucose absorption during peritoneal dialysis is increased when solutions of high glucose concentration and high dialysis exchange rates are used. These conditions also favour maximum fluid removal. Optimum efficiency for removal of urea and related compounds is achieved when a well placed catheter allows good peritoneal drainage and high volume exchanges. Under these conditions concentrated solutions are rarely required. High glucose concentrations should not be used to compensate for technical problems which prevent adequate drainage.Hyperglycaemia is a constant risk of peritoneal dialysis and reflects an underlying carbohydrate intolerance. However, the condition is often precipitated by the stress of operation or severe infection or the exhibition of corticosteroids or diuretics. Increased glucose loads in the form of intravenous glucose solutions or peritoneal dialysis solutions of high glucose concentration may also contribute. Hyperglycaemia may be a severe and even fatal complication which can only be avoided by constant awareness and surveillance.