Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)

Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a genetic disorder that causes numerous cysts to form in the kidneys over time. The cysts that form are filled with fluid. These cysts will enlarge the kidneys and interfere with the kidneys abilities to filter wastes and extra fluid. There are two forms of PKD . Autosomal dominant PKD, which is the most common inherited form. Symptoms occur between the age of 30-40. Ninety percent of PKD patients are this type. Autosomal recessive PKD is a rare inherited form. This type of PKD begin in early months of life or even in the womb. In a fully developed PKD patient, the enlarged cystic kidney can weigh as much as 20-30 pounds. High blood pressure is a result of PKD. The most common symptoms are pain in the back, ribs and hips and frequent headaches. Complications can be urinary tract infections, hematuria, liver and pancreatic cysts, abnormal heart valves, kidney stones, aneurysms and diverticulosis. Ultrasound, CT and MRI are widely used modalities to diagnose and monitor PKD patients. Unfortunately, PKD patients usually end up on dialysis machines and kidney failure.This is a Axial CT Image of a patient withPolycystic Kidney Disease.