Polycystic Kidney Disease

Polycystic Kidney Disease
Other names	PKD
Specialty	Nephrology
Symptoms	High blood pressure, kidney pain, blood in urine, kidney failure
Complications	Chronic kidney disease, Kidney failure, Liver cysts, Brain aneurysms
Duration	Long-term
Types	Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), Autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD)
Causes	Genetic mutation
Risk factors	Family history
Diagnostic method	Ultrasound, CT scan, MRI
Treatment	Symptom management, blood pressure control, dialysis, kidney transplant
Medication	Antihypertensives, pain relief
Frequency	1 in 1,000 (ADPKD), 1 in 20,000 (ARPKD)

Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) is a genetic disorder characterized by the growth of numerous cysts in the kidneys. These cysts can lead to various health issues, including kidney failure. PKD is primarily inherited in two forms: Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD) and Autosomal Recessive Polycystic Kidney Disease (ARPKD).

Types

Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD)

ADPKD is the more common form of polycystic kidney disease, affecting approximately 1 in 1,000 people. It typically manifests in adulthood and can be diagnosed with imaging techniques such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI. Symptoms often include high blood pressure, kidney pain, and blood in the urine.

Autosomal Recessive Polycystic Kidney Disease (ARPKD)

ARPKD is less common, with an incidence of 1 in 20,000. It usually presents shortly after birth and can be severe. The disease affects the kidneys and liver, leading to significant complications early in life.

Symptoms and Complications

Common symptoms of PKD include high blood pressure, pain in the back or sides, blood in the urine, and recurrent urinary tract infections. Over time, the cysts increase in size and number, impairing kidney function and leading to chronic kidney disease or kidney failure.

Complications may include liver cysts, brain aneurysms, and issues in other organs. The progression of the disease can vary significantly among individuals.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of PKD is primarily based on imaging studies which show the presence of multiple cysts in the kidneys. Family history is also a critical factor in diagnosing the autosomal dominant form of the disease.

Treatment

There is no cure for PKD, but treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications. This includes controlling blood pressure, treating urinary tract infections, and pain management. In cases of kidney failure, dialysis or a kidney transplant may be necessary.

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals with PKD varies. Those with ADPKD may live for many decades without severe complications, while individuals with ARPKD often experience more significant problems at an earlier age.

See also

• Chronic kidney disease
• Kidney transplantation
• Genetic disorder

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