Which condition is an inherited kidney disorder characterized by numerous cysts that can lead to kidney failure?

Which condition is an inherited kidney disorder characterized by numerous cysts that can lead to kidney failure?

• A. Renal failure
• B. PKD
• C. Prostatic cancer
• D. Retrograde pyelogram

Answer: (B)

An inherited cystic kidney disease where numerous cysts develop in the kidneys and progressively impair function. This is polycystic kidney disease, typically autosomal dominant, though a rare autosomal recessive form exists. The cysts grow and replace normal renal tissue, leading to a decline in nephron number and kidney function, and eventually renal failure. Patients often have hypertension and may notice hematuria or flank pain as cysts enlarge. Imaging—especially ultrasound or MRI—shows many bilateral renal cysts, which helps distinguish this condition from other kidney issues. Because it’s inherited, a family history is common. Management centers on controlling blood pressure, protecting kidney function, treating complications, and planning for renal replacement therapy (dialysis or transplant) as kidney failure ensues. The other options aren’t the disease: renal failure is a consequence rather than the disorder, prostatic cancer relates to the prostate, and a retrograde pyelogram is a diagnostic test, not a disease.

An inherited cystic kidney disease where numerous cysts develop in the kidneys and progressively impair function. This is polycystic kidney disease, typically autosomal dominant, though a rare autosomal recessive form exists. The cysts grow and replace normal renal tissue, leading to a decline in nephron number and kidney function, and eventually renal failure. Patients often have hypertension and may notice hematuria or flank pain as cysts enlarge. Imaging—especially ultrasound or MRI—shows many bilateral renal cysts, which helps distinguish this condition from other kidney issues. Because it’s inherited, a family history is common. Management centers on controlling blood pressure, protecting kidney function, treating complications, and planning for renal replacement therapy (dialysis or transplant) as kidney failure ensues. The other options aren’t the disease: renal failure is a consequence rather than the disorder, prostatic cancer relates to the prostate, and a retrograde pyelogram is a diagnostic test, not a disease.