What is polycystic kidney disease?

Polycystic kidney disease is a hereditary chronic kidney disorder primarily characterized by the presence of multiple cysts of varying sizes in both kidneys. These cysts form a grape-like cluster structure and their number can reach dozens or even hundreds. The cause of polycystic kidney disease is mainly related to genetic factors and the condition can be classified into two types: infantile and adult forms. Infantile polycystic kidney disease is an autosomal recessive disorder, which is severe and often results in early death. Adult polycystic kidney disease, on the other hand, is controlled by an autosomal dominant gene. Its progression is relatively slow, but in later stages patients may develop symptoms such as renal insufficiency, hypertension, and flank pain, eventually progressing to end-stage renal disease. Patients with polycystic kidney disease should also be aware of complications involving other organ systems, such as liver cysts and aneurysms.