[Peritoneum as a dialysis membrane. I. Physiology].

The interest in structure and function of peritoneum increased when it turned out that it may be used as biologic dialysis membrane. The structure of peritoneum is of significant value in the course of peritoneal dialysis. The role of the mesothelium, the interstitium, blood and lymphatic capillaries, major constituents of peritoneum, have been deeply studied. Moreover, it is well known that process of dialysis influence the structure and function of different peritoneal elements. Having more date about physiological structure of these elements, and making conditions of peritoneal dialysis more physiologic might be crucial factors to reduce the amount of complications, and increase the usefulness of this method of treatment. This article is the first of two parts and discusses the peritoneal structure in physiologic conditions and in conditions of peritoneal dialysis.