Polycystic Kidney Disease
Polycystic Kidney Disease Causes
Polycystic kidney disease is caused by abnormal genes in family, which results in two types of the disease. The autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease is passed on to the child from one parent with the abnormal genes. The autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease is passed on from both parents with the abnormal genes to their child. In rare cases, the disease is the result of a spontaneous gene mutation.
Polycystic Kidney Disease Definition
Polycystic kidney disease is a kidney disorder due to multiple cysts in the kidneys. The disease may also damage the liver and pancreas. In rare cases, it can also damage the heart and brain.
Polycystic Kidney Disease Diagnosis
The disease is diagnosed based on family history, showing of symptoms suggestive of the disease, and results of diagnostic methods determining the size and number of cysts and evaluating health of kidney tissue. Such diagnostic methods include ultrasound examination, Computerized tomography scan, magnetic resonance imaging scan, and genetic testing.
Polycystic Kidney Disease Symptoms and Signs
Patients may have symptoms like high blood pressure, back or side pain due to enlarged kidneys, abdominal pain, increased abdomen size, blood in urine, frequent urination, and kidney stones, kidney failure, or kidney infections. It may also lead to total loss of kidney function also known as end stage renal disease.
Polycystic Kidney Disease Treatment
There is no cure for polycystic kidney disease, but treatment is available to provide temporary relief and extend lives. Such treatment may be the use of over-the-counter pain medications, antibiotics, or surgery to remove the cysts. Kidney functions are replaced through dialysis or kidney transplantation. Families at risk of having the disease may also undergo genetic counseling.