Does a kidney cyst require removal of the kidney?

Nov 14, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

Today, while accompanying a friend for a routine physical exam, he was found to have a kidney cyst. I'm wondering, does a kidney cyst require removal of the kidney?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhao Xinju
In most cases, kidney cysts do not require removal of the kidney. If the cyst is small and not causing any symptoms, treatment is generally unnecessary; regular follow-up examinations at the hospital are sufficient. For larger cysts, treatment options include aspiration (fluid drainage) or surgical removal of the cyst. When a patient is diagnosed with a kidney cyst, it is recommended to undergo further evaluation at the hospital, such as a renal CT scan or ultrasound-guided needle biopsy, to determine the nature of the cyst and guide appropriate management.