Polycystic Kidney Disease

Overview

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease is an inherited systemic disorder that primarily affects the kidneys but may also involve the liver, pancreas, and cerebral arteries. About half of affected people progress to end-stage renal disease, typically between ages 40 and 60.

Symptoms

• Flank and abdominal distension pain
• Hematuria
• Hypertension
• Abdominal mass
• Urinary tract infection

Treatment

Control blood pressure, prevent and treat infections and stones, and provide dialysis or transplantation for those progressing to renal failure.

Dietary advice

Low-salt diet, drink plenty of water, limit caffeine, and control protein intake.