Is renal medullary cystic disease the same as polycystic kidney disease?
Disease description:
My friend recently had a physical examination which showed cystic changes in the renal medulla. I have heard of polycystic kidney disease before, and I would like to ask if cystic changes in the renal medulla are the same as polycystic kidney disease?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Guang
Renal medullary cystic disease and polycystic kidney disease are two distinct kidney disorders.
Renal medullary cystic disease, also known as medullary sponge kidney or tubular idiopathic dilation, is characterized by cystic lesions in the renal medulla. This condition is more common in children and males and may be associated with antibiotic treatment and blood pressure control. Patients may be asymptomatic or present with mild renal insufficiency, hematuria, and hypertension.
Polycystic kidney disease is a hereditary disorder characterized by the formation of multiple cysts in both kidneys. Depending on the pattern of inheritance, polycystic kidney disease can be classified into autosomal recessive and autosomal dominant types. The autosomal recessive form is rare, while the autosomal dominant type is more commonly seen in adolescents and young adults. Patients may experience symptoms such as abdominal discomfort, hematuria, hypertension, and renal failure.
