Definition

Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is when many fluid-filled cysts form in the kidneys. The kidneys get bigger as the cysts grow inside them. This can cause kidney damage and other problems.

Autosomal dominant PKD happens in adults and is the most common type. Autosomal recessive PKD is a type found in newborns.

Anatomy of the Kidney Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Causes

PKD is caused by faulty gene. Other people have it due to changes in a certain gene.

Risk Factors

The risk of this problem is higher in people who have a parent with PKD.

Symptoms

Some people have symptoms at birth while others do not have problems until later in life. Symptoms also differ from person to person.

Problems may be:

• Pain in the back or side
• Blood in the urine
• Belly pain
• Frequent urination

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done.

Blood and urine tests will be done to check kidney function.

Images may be taken of the kidneys. This can be done with:

• Ultrasound
• MRI scan
• CT scan

Treatment

There is no cure. The goal of treatment is to manage symptoms and prevent health problems. Options are:

• Medicines to:
  • Lower high blood pressure and cholesterol
  • Ease pain
  • Treat cysts that are bleeding
• Dietary changes, such as drinking plenty of fluids and a low sodium diet
• Dialysis to remove waste from the blood

Some people may need surgery to:

• Drain or remove cysts to ease pain, bleeding, or a blockage
• Remove one or both kidneys— nephrectomy
• Replace a damaged kidney — kidney transplant

Prevention

There is no known way to prevent PKD.