Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD): Symptoms, Causes & Management
Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a genetic condition that involves the growth of cysts on the kidneys. Children whose parents have this condition have a 50 percent chance of inheriting PKD. PKD can range from mild to severe.-
High Blood Pressure
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High blood pressure is a common symptom of PKD.
Abdominal Pain
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PKD can also cause abdominal pain or tenderness.
Abnormal Urination
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PKD can cause blood in the urine or excessive urination at night.
Other Symptoms
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PKD may also cause drowsiness, joint pain, painful menstruation or nail abnormalities.
Diagnosis
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PKD is diagnosed through tests including urinalysis, abdominal ultrasounds, abdominal MRI scans or abdominal CT scans.
Associated Conditions
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PKD is associated with cysts in the liver, pancreas and testes, brain aneurysms and colon diverticula. Approximately half of people with PKD develop cysts on the liver.
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