Polycystic Kidney Disease

Introduction

Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) is a hereditary disorder that causes fluid-filled cysts to form in the nephrons of the kidneys. These cysts can grow so large and so numerous that they crowd out the normal kidney tissue, rendering the kidneys unable to function normally. Damage to the kidneys is caused by structural deformities caused by the enlarging cysts as well as by elevations in blood pressure (hypertension). Cysts can also form in other organs such as the liver.

PKD affects approximately 600,000 persons in the United States. It is one of the most common hereditary diseases and the fourth leading cause of kidney failure. It seems to affect all races and both genders equally.

Persons with autosomal dominant PKD often exhibit no symptoms and the disease can not be diagnosed by routine blood work in its early stages. Therefore, persons may have the disease for years before it is diagnosed.

Currently, there is no known cure for PKD. The objectives of treatment are to better control symptoms, prevent complications, preserve quality of life, and prolong survival. Medications can be used to control pain, reduce blood pressure (hypertension) and treat urinary tract infections. Approximately 50% of PKD patients will eventually require renal dialysis to compensate for reduced kidney function. Kidney transplantation may be considered as a treatment option for patients with advanced PKD.

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