Are my cysts linked to end-stage renal disease?

Question

Hello doctor,

I would like to understand what this report means in depth. These are the findings :

The bipolar lengths of the kidneys are 3.8 inches on the right and 4.6 inches on the left. There is diffusely increased echogenicity of the renal parenchyma with loss of normal corticomedullary differentiation.

There are multiple cysts in both kidneys, which measure up to 2.1 inches on the right and 2.3 inches on the left. The findings are in keeping with known end-stage renal disease. No suspicious renal mass, calculus, or hydronephrosis is detected.

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

From the ultrasound (attachment removed to protect the patient's identity), both kidneys are showing changes that happen when the damage has been present for many years. The kidney tissue has become more echogenic and has lost the normal internal pattern we usually see. This tells us that the kidneys have become scarred and are no longer functioning normally.

There are also multiple cysts in both kidneys, some of them fairly large. This pattern is typical of polycystic kidney disease, which is a condition where cysts gradually enlarge over time and slowly reduce the working capacity of the kidneys.

There is no sign of any kidney stones, blockage, or tumor. The changes we see are purely due to the long-standing disease process. Based on this ultrasound, along with the blood tests, which show reduced kidney function, the overall picture is that of chronic kidney disease secondary to polycystic kidney disease, and the structural changes in the kidneys are irreversible.

At this stage, treatment is focused on protecting the remaining kidney function, managing complications, and planning long-term care, including discussions about dialysis or transplant when required.

I hope this helps.

Kindly follow up if you have more concerns.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

For now, we can monitor and support with medications, but in the long run, dialysis might be needed. Unfortunately, we cannot treat this condition. Also, a renal transplant is not advised for this condition, but for now, dialysis is not required immediately.

I hope this helps.

Kindly follow up if you have more concerns.

Thank you.