Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a genetic disorder characterized by the
growth of numerous cysts in the kidneys. The kidneys are two organs, each about
the size of a fist, located in the upper part of a person's abdomen, toward the
back. The kidneys filter wastes and extra fluid from the blood to form urine.
They also regulate amounts of certain vital substances in the body. When cysts
form in the kidneys, they are filled with fluid. PKD cysts can profoundly
enlarge the kidneys while replacing much of the normal structure, resulting in
reduced kidney function and leading to kidney failure.
When PKD causes kidneys to fail-which usually happens after many years-the
patient requires dialysis or kidney transplantation. About one-half of people
with the most common type of PKD progress to kidney failure, also called
end-stage renal disease (ESRD).
Polycystic kidney disease symptoms may include:
High blood pressure
Back or side pain
Headache
Increase in the size of your abdomen
Blood in your urine
Frequent urination
Kidney stones
Kidney failure
Urinary tract or kidney infections
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