Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) can be defined as, “a genetic disorder characterized by the growth of numerous cysts filled with fluid in the kidneys.” (Urology Disorders) The cysts on the kidneys slowly begin to replace much of the kidneys mass; it is possible for a cyst filled kidney to weigh a possible 22 pounds. This impairs the Kidneys ability to function properly and causes kidney failure. (National Kidney) “PKD is the fourth leading cause to kidney failure.”(Urology)

The first most common type of PKD is Autosomal Dominant PKD. This is the most common form of PKD and can only be caused by inherited genes. About 90% of PKD is this form. There is a 50 % chance that if one parent has it, his child will receive it. (Mamas health) This type of PKD is also sometimes known as, “adult polycystic

This type of PKD can be diagnosed using ultrasounds, kidney MRI’s, and CT-scans. The most common treatment of ACKD is surgery. The surgery is done in order to stop the bleeding of the cysts or to remove tumors or cysts suspected to possibly form tumors. (National Kidney)

kidney disease”, because symptoms usually do not develop until much later in life. “The most common symptoms are pain in the back and headaches. The dull pain can be temporary or persistent, mild or severe.”(National Kidney) Other symptoms that sometimes occur consist of urinary tract infections, kidney stones, cysts developing on the liver, high blood pressure, aneurysms, also hematuria. (M.H. Breuning 43 )

The three types of PKD may cause much discomfort and pain at times. However, most cases are treatable through medicine, surgery, dialysis, or transplantation. They are only diagnosed by careful observation done by a doctor and in most cases a family medical history check. PKD is one of the main causes that of complete kidney failure.

“Although a cure for autosomal dominant PKD is not available, treatment can ease the symptoms and prolong life.” (National Kidney) For moderate pain aspirin or Tylenol may be prescribed, however if unbearable pain is experienced, although

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