Polycystic renal disease

Abstract

Renal cystic disease is a relatively common disorder whose development and progression currently appear to be due to an interaction between an abnormal basement membrane matrix, a potentially immature, hyperproliferative epithelium, and an abnormal epithelial secretory apparatus. RCC risk in cystic kidneys is the most controversial sequela of PKD. Currently, RCC risk in ESRD patients appears to be close to that present in the general population and only coincidentally associated with renal cysts. Screening of all ESRD patients for RCC and prophylactic native nephrectomy in dialysis and transplant patients does not seem to be indicated.