Early Sclerosis in the Kidney

Tuberous sclerosis is rare condition that may cause tumors to grow in the kidneys. It progresses slowly and may take years for the condition to produce any symptoms. Once symptoms are noticed, it is likely the disease has progressed to a dangerous point.

Significance

• Tuberous sclerosis affects up to 40,000 individuals in the United States and nearly 2 million people worldwide. Those with tuberous sclerosis may pass the condition on to their own children about 50 percent of the time.

Types of Growths

• Individuals with tuberous sclerosis of the kidneys produce angiomyolipomas and cysts. Angiomyolipomas are growths made up of muscle tissue and fatty tissue.

Symptoms

• Large angiomyolipomas may cause pain or kidney failure. Cysts usually do not cause symptoms, but large or numerous cysts may cause poor kidney function and kidney failure. Internal bleeding may occur as a result of growths, blood loss, anemia and low blood pressure.

Time Frame

• Tuberous sclerosis is a genetic condition that often is detected shortly after birth. The disease is unpredictable, and there is no way to determine how mild or serious the condition might become.

Treatments

• Kidney tumors may need to be removed surgically if they are affecting the kidney's ability to function properly.