What Does Renal Cyst Mean & What Causes It?

Your kidneys are responsible for filtering waste products from your blood. Once filtered, your body removes these toxins via urine. Within your kidneys one or more cysts can form. Your cysts are usually detected during a routine imaging scan or other tests. The causes of your cysts can vary.

Identification

• Cysts are small, round fluid-filled sac within your kidneys. However, the cysts can be irregularly shaped. The lining of the sacs are thin and filled usually filled with clear or yellowish fluid.

Types

• There are two types of cysts: simple and complex. Simple cysts are noncancerous and most common.

Difference

• Complex cysts have a low risk of becoming cancerous, according to the Kidney Cancer Institute (KCI). They are considered complex because of different characteristics like irregular shapes, have a blood supply or have a thick lining.

Common Cause

• The most common cause of renal cysts, according to Family Doctor, is age. Typically, kidney cysts occur if you’re 50 years or older.

Other Causes

• Other causes are polycystic kidney disease (PKD) and multicystic kidney dysplasia, according to the Mayo Clinic. These medical conditions can lead to renal, or kidney, failure.