Polycystic renal disease, more commonly known as polycystic kidney disease (PKD), is a genetic disorder in which noncancerous fluid-filled cysts grow on the kidneys. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), these cysts enlarge the kidneys, which results in reduced kidney function and eventual kidney failure. The NIDDK estimates there are 0.6 million people in the U.S. with polycystic renal disease.
Types
There are two types of PKD. These are autosomal dominant PKD and autosomal recessive PKD. According to the NIDDK, autosomal PKD is the most common form and usually develops between the ages of 30 and 40. Although symptoms may occur in childhood, most people with autosomal PKD will live for several decades without displaying any symptoms of the disease. Autosomal recessive PKD is rare and accounts for around 10 percent of PKD cases. Symptoms of autosomal recessive PKD may begin the womb or in the first few months of a baby's life.
Symptoms
According to MayoClinic.com, it is not unusual for people to have PKD for many years before they experience any symptoms. Symptoms may include high blood pressure, swelling of the abdomen, pain in the side of the body or in the back and blood in the urine. MayoClinic.com advises anyone experiencing these symptoms to see his doctor to gain an accurate diagnosis.
Diagnosis
In order to diagnose PKD, a doctor may employ a number of diagnostic tests. These will also help the doctor assess size and number of cysts and how much of the kidney tissue is still healthy and functioning properly. Imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans may be employed to visualize the kidneys, or an ultrasound may be performed. In some cases genetic testing may be used, especially if a person with suspected PKD has relatives with the disease. However, MayoClinic.com states that since ultrasound and imaging tests usually give an accurate diagnosis, genetic testing is typically used only when a family member is considering kidney donation.
Treatment
There is no cure for PKD. Treatment focuses on alleviating the symptoms of the condition and preventing further damage to the kidneys. A doctor may prescribe medication to control high blood pressure to prevent further damage to the kidneys. Medicine may also used to control pain and resolve any kidney infections. Ultimately, a person with PKD will require either dialysis to replicate functions the kidney can no longer carry out or will need a kidney transplant.
Research
According to NHS Choices, hope for PKD sufferers could arrive in the form a new medicine called tolvaptan. Data from initial studies have shown tolvaptan is effective in reducing cyst formation as well as kidney damage. As of August 2010, tolvaptan was in phase III clinical trials in which it was being tested against placebo in large groups of patients with PKD.
