Friday, January 8, 2010

Polycystic Kidney Syndrome

Polycystic kidney syndrome is identified by the presence of multiple cysts in both kidneys. It is a genetic disorder of the kidneys which is passed down from one generation to the next as an autosomal dominant trait and results from mutations in either the PKD-1 or PKD-2 gene. If one parent carries the gene, the offspring has a 50% chance of developing the disorder. The cysts are non-cancerous and look like sacs containing water-like fluid.

The cysts are numerous and are filled with fluids which enlarge the kidneys. The disease can also damage the liver, pancreas, and in some rare cases, the heart and brain. The two major forms of polycystic kidney disease are distinguished by their patterns of inheritance.

Polycystic kidney syndrome is the most common genetic, life threatening disease affecting more than 600,000 Americans and an estimated 12.5 million people worldwide. The PKD Foundation is the only organization worldwide dedicated to fighting polycystic kidney disease. The one of the risks for patients suffering from polycystic kidney syndrome is developing high blood pressure. Kidney failure is another common problem for people with polycystic kidney disease.

Polycystic kidney syndrome is also known as polycystic kindney disease, whose symptoms include: high blood pressure, blood in your urine, back or side pain related to enlarged kidneys, kidney stones, headache, frequent urination, increase in the size of your abdomen.

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