Are kidney cysts and high creatinine signs of ADPKD in women?

Question

Hello doctor,

My mother is 52, and her ultrasound showed multiple kidney cysts. The report mentioned “probable autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease,” and we are very worried. Her creatinine is 1.7, and she also has mildly high blood pressure.

Does this mean her kidney function will keep declining over time?
Are there medicines that can slow the growth of the cysts, or are treatments mainly about controlling symptoms?
We also want to know if she should avoid high-protein foods or painkillers to protect her kidneys. Since this condition can be inherited, should my siblings and I get an ultrasound to check ourselves as well?
Her doctor advised monitoring her eGFR every few months. How often should this be repeated to properly track her kidney health?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is a genetic condition in which many fluid-filled cysts slowly grow inside the kidneys over the years. These cysts can enlarge the kidneys and, in some people, gradually reduce kidney function.

Yes, kidney function can decline, but the pace is very different for every person. Some people live for decades with stable function, while others worsen faster. This is why regular follow-up is so important - it helps us catch any drop early and manage it.

There is no cure yet, but there are ways to slow things down.

Tolvaptan is a newer medicine that can slow cyst growth and protect kidney function in selected patients. A nephrologist decides if someone is the right candidate.
Blood pressure control is the single most important step. Doctors usually use medicines like ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme) inhibitors or ARBs (angiotensin II receptor blockers), which also protect the kidneys.
Keep her well-hydrated unless her doctor has restricted fluids.

Diet and lifestyle precautions:

Avoid high-protein diets (they put extra load on the kidneys).
Reduce salt intake.
Strictly avoid NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like Ibuprofen or Diclofenac, as they can damage the kidneys further.
Maintain a healthy weight, manage diabetes if present, and avoid smoking.

Since ADPKD is inherited, each child has a 50 percent chance of having it. You and your siblings should get an ultrasound screening, especially if you are adults. In uncertain cases, doctors may suggest genetic testing.

Her eGFR (estimated glomerular filtration rate) and creatinine should be checked every three to six months, depending on how stable her numbers are. Regular monitoring of blood pressure and urine protein helps guide long-term management.

With good blood pressure control, avoiding harmful medications, staying hydrated, and having regular follow-ups, many people with ADPKD can maintain kidney function for a long time. Feel free to share her most recent reports if you would like more specific guidance.

I hope this helps.

Kindly revert so I can assist you further.

Thank you.