Inherited and congenital conditions may lead to cyst formation within the kidneys. A cyst is a fluid-filled tissue mass. Cysts often grow as increasing amounts of fluid accumulate within the structure. New cysts may also develop over time. Diseases associated with large kidney cysts can interfere with normal kidney function, potentially leading to kidney failure. Smaller kidney cysts may prove inconsequential with respect to kidney function.
Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease
Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease is an inherited disorder, which typically presents in early to middle adulthood. Cysts form from cells in the renal tubules--part of the filtering units of the kidneys. Many people with this disorder also develop liver cysts, which generally do not disrupt liver function. Symptoms may include pain in the back, flank or abdomen and abdominal enlargement due to cystic growth of the kidneys. Massive kidney enlargement may develop with severe disease. High blood pressure and frequent urinary tract infections prove common. "The Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals" reports that approximately 35 to 45 percent of those with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease progress to kidney failure later in life.
Autosomal Recessive Polycystic Kidney Disease
Autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease is an uncommon form of cystic kidney disease, which typically presents at birth or during early infancy. Kidney cysts begin developing before birth. Information provided by "Gene Reviews" notes that liver cysts and scarring develop in approximately 45 percent of babies afflicted with autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease. High blood pressure may occur as early as the first weeks to months of life. More than 50 percent of children with this disorder progress to kidney failure by age 10. Feeding difficulties, stunted growth and progressive deterioration of kidney and liver function prove problematic for youngsters with autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease. Kidney transplantation can provide an opportunity for long-term survival among children with end-stage kidney failure. Combined kidney and liver transplantation may be needed for children with failure of both organ systems.
Multicystic Dysplastic Kidney
Abnormal development of kidney tissue before birth may lead to a multicystic dysplastic kidney. With this disease, the abnormal kidney does not function. The Children's Hospital Boston recommends a thorough evaluation of children with a multicystic dysplastic kidney because approximately 50 percent of those affected have malformations in the remaining functional kidney, or in other parts of the urinary system.
Medullary Sponge Kidney
Medullary sponge kidney is a congenital disorder in which many small cysts develop in the region of the kidney termed the medulla. "The Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals" reports that most people with this condition have no symptoms and bear no increased risk for kidney failure. The risk for kidney stones, however, proves substantial among people with medullary sponge kidney. Frequent urinary tract infections may occur in conjunction with recurring kidney stones.
References
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: Polycystic Kidney Disease
- National Kidney Foundation: Polycystic Kidney Disease
- Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals: Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease
- Gene Reviews: Polycystic Kidney Disease, Autosomal Recessive
- Genetics Home Reference: Polycystic Kidney Disease
