Recognizing and Managing Kidney Cysts: Essential Insights

Kidney cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop within the kidneys. An individual may have one or multiple cysts in one or both kidneys. These cysts generally appear as simple cysts or as part of polycystic kidney disease. Simple cysts are typically benign and do not impair kidney function, often remaining symptom-free and discovered accidentally during imaging tests for other health issues. Conversely, polycystic kidney disease is a hereditary condition that can cause extensive kidney damage as cysts multiply and grow.

Proper diagnosis and treatment of kidney cysts are crucial.
Signs of kidney cysts
For simple cysts, symptoms usually do not manifest unless the cyst enlarges or becomes infected, leading to:

• Frequent urination
• Blood in urine
• Dark urine
• Upper abdominal inflammation or discomfort
• Back pain or pain between the ribs and pelvis
• Fever

Polycystic kidney disease can present additional symptoms such as:

• Urinary tract infections
• Kidney stones
• Severe back pain
• Pale skin and easy bruising
• Fatigue
• Joint discomfort
• High blood pressure
• Nail abnormalities

Treatment options for kidney cysts
A urologist evaluates the condition through blood and urine tests to assess kidney function.

Additional diagnostic tools like ultrasound, MRI, or CT scans help monitor the cysts’ growth. Small cysts often require no immediate treatment but should be monitored annually. Larger cysts may need interventions such as:

• Sclerotherapy: This procedure involves draining the cyst's fluid using a local anesthetic and ultrasound guidance. Sometimes, a chemical solution like alcohol is introduced to prevent recurrence.
• Surgical removal: Large cysts may necessitate surgery, performed with minimally invasive techniques, where the cyst is drained and its walls are removed or destroyed.