CT Scan for Polycystic Kidney Disease

An ultrasound test is the preferred way for physicians to scan for the cysts that are dominant in polycystic kidney disease. But smaller cysts sometimes require the more in-depth view available from a computed tomography, or CT scan.

PKD

• The types of polycystic kidney disease (PKD) are autosomal dominant PKD and autosomal recessive PKD. The dominant version typically remains dormant until adulthood, while the the recessive variety occurs in infancy or early childhood. A third form, acquired polycystic kidney disease, is a result of damage from long-term dialysis.

Cysts

• PKD is a genetic disorder that causes kidneys to develop numerous, fluid-filled cysts. When these cysts become large, they damage the kidney's ability to function. This may lead to kidney failure, the need for dialysis or transplantation, and occasionally, death.

Tests

• According to the National Kidney Foundation, an ultrasound is typically used to help diagnose PKD but in some instances, a computed tomography (CT) scan or a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is helpful in detecting smaller cysts.

CT Scan

• An abdominal CT scan searches for kidney and liver cysts. PKD regularly affects other organs including the pancreas, spleen, ovaries, and large bowel. Occasionally, the brain or heart is also affected.

CT Procedure

• A CT scan for polycystic kidney disease entails the individual moving onto his or her back, arms raised above the head, and sliding into a CT scanner. Dye is usually injected into the bloodstream so the organs and cysts may be more easily seen. The patient must remain still so as not to blur the images.