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Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a genetic condition that causes fluid-filled cysts to grow in the kidneys. Learn symptoms, testing, and treatment in simple terms.
🩺 Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) Explained
🩺 Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) Explained
What Is Polycystic Kidney Disease?
What Is Polycystic Kidney Disease?
Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is an inherited condition where many fluid-filled sacs, called cysts, grow inside the kidneys.
Over time, these cysts can:
Get larger
Multiply in number
Damage normal kidney tissue
Reduce kidney function
PKD is one of the most common genetic causes of kidney disease.
How Does PKD Affect the Kidneys?
How Does PKD Affect the Kidneys?
Healthy kidneys are made of solid tissue.
In PKD:
Normal tissue is slowly replaced by cysts
Kidneys become larger than normal
Filtering ability gradually decreases
This process usually happens slowly over many years.
Types of PKD
Types of PKD
Types of PKD
Types of PKD
There are two main types:
1. Autosomal Dominant PKD (ADPKD)
1. Autosomal Dominant PKD (ADPKD)
The most common form
Usually appears in adulthood
Runs strongly in families
Only one parent needs to pass on the gene
2. Autosomal Recessive PKD (ARPKD)
2. Autosomal Recessive PKD (ARPKD)
Much rarer
Often affects babies or children
Both parents must carry the gene
Most adults with PKD have the dominant form (ADPKD).
What Are the Symptoms?
What Are the Symptoms?
Early on, many people have no symptoms at all.
Common symptoms can include:
High blood pressure
Back or side pain
Blood in the urine
Frequent urinary tract infections
Kidney stones
Enlarged abdomen
Headaches
Gradual loss of kidney function
Symptoms usually appear slowly over time
How Is PKD Diagnosed?
How Is PKD Diagnosed?
PKD is usually diagnosed with imaging tests.
Common Tests Include:
Common Tests Include:
Kidney Ultrasound
Most common test
Can show cysts clearly
Safe and painless
CT Scan or MRI
Used if more detail is needed
Blood and Urine Tests
Blood and Urine Tests
Creatinine
eGFR
Urinalysis
Blood pressure monitoring
If there is a family history, genetic testing may also be used.
How Is PKD Treated?
How Is PKD Treated?
There is no cure for PKD, but treatment can help slow damage.
Treatment usually focuses on:
1. Controlling Blood Pressure
1. Controlling Blood Pressure
This is the most important step to protect the kidneys.
2. Managing Symptoms
2. Managing Symptoms
Treating pain
Treating infections
Treating kidney stones
3. Protecting Kidney Function
3. Protecting Kidney Function
Healthy diet
Staying hydrated
Avoiding kidney-harming medicines
4. Newer Medications
4. Newer Medications
Some medicines can help slow cyst growth in certain patients.
What Happens Over Time?
What Happens Over Time?
Many people with PKD eventually develop:
Chronic kidney disease
Reduced kidney function
In some cases, kidney failure
However:
👉 The speed of progression is different for everyone.
Some people live many decades with mild disease.
Possible Complications
Possible Complications
PKD can also affect other parts of the body, including:
Liver cysts
High blood pressure
Brain aneurysms (in some families)
Heart valve problems
Your doctor may recommend extra screening depending on family history.
When Should You See a Doctor?
When Should You See a Doctor?
You should talk to a doctor if you have:
A family history of PKD
Blood in your urine
Ongoing flank or back pain
High blood pressure at a young age
Abnormal kidney test results
Early monitoring can help protect kidney health.
Important Takeaway
Important Takeaway
Polycystic kidney disease is a lifelong condition, but with good medical care and monitoring, many people live full and active lives for many years.
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