About Multicystic Renal Disease

Multicystic renal disease, also called multicystic kidney dysfunction, is the formation of non-cancerous cysts on the kidneys. The disease is normally present at birth and can be viewed on ultrasounds. The disease may also present itself in later stages of life and typically affect only one kidney.

Causes

• A family history of the medical condition may elevate your risk of muticystic renal disease. A blockage in the urinary tract in developing fetuses may also contribute to the disease. The cysts will be large and appear as a cluster on the kidney. The affected kidney cannot function properly.

Complications

• Complications that arise from multicystic disease include high blood pressure, back pain due to an enlarged kidney, lumps in the back where the affected kidney is located, stomach fullness, frequent urination, kidney stones and infections.

Diagnosis

• An ultrasound examination uses sound waves to produce images on a monitor revealing cysts on the kidneys. A CT scan or MRI may also be used to produce images of the kidneys. Blood tests may be taken to check for a genetic link to the disease.

Treatment

• Removal of the affected kidney may not be necessary if you have no painful symptoms. ACE inhibitors will be given to lower high blood pressure. Pain relievers such as Advil and Motrin can ease mild pain. Surgical removal of the kidney may be necessary if the healthy kidney begins to enlarge to compensate for the non-functioning kidney. When both kidneys become compromised, this can lead to kidney failure.

Polycystic Kidney Disease

• Polycystic kidney disease is similar to multicystic renal disease, only both kidneys are affected with cysts. The disease is also inherited and may cause cysts to form on the liver. The disease causes medical problems for the heart and blood vessels in the brain, leading to the development of a brain aneurysm. Kidney failure is unfortunately common with this disorder.

Prevention/Solution

• Genetic counseling may be recommended if you have multicystic renal disease and want to have children. Testing will determine if you are at a high risk of passing the medical condition to your child. Keep kidneys healthy by limiting your sodium intake and maintaining a healthy weight. Control blood pressure by taking medications and reduce stress in your life which contributes to high levels of blood pressure. Discuss with your doctor diet or exercise routines best suited to help your medical condition.