Polycystic kidneys
Polycystic kidney disease is a congenital disease caused by a gene mutation (PKHD1 or PKD1). It is accompanied by the formation of multiple cavities in the kidneys, i.e. cysts. Structural changes in the parenchymal tissue cause organ dysfunction. Polycystic kidney disease is considered one of the types of cystic dysplasia, in which cysts are also formed in other organs, for example, in the pancreas and spleen. Patients are often diagnosed with "polycystic liver and kidney disease."
Causes and symptoms of polycystic kidney disease
There are two forms of this genetically determined pathology - autosomal dominant and autosomal recessive. The reason for the development of polycystic disease is an inherited disorder or spontaneous mutations of genes located in the 16th pair of chromosomes.
The disease is more severe if the defective gene is inherited according to the autosomal recessive type; such patients develop pronounced functional disorders much faster, that is, chronic renal failure.
Smoking and drinking a lot of coffee are factors that contribute to a faster disruption of the functional activity of the kidneys. It is noted that polycystic kidney disease is more severe in men.
Until the damage to the kidney tissue reaches a critical level, symptoms are not detected.
Clinical manifestations of polycystic kidneys:
- sensation of heaviness in the lumbar region;
- dull pains of varying intensity in the projection of the kidneys;
- general weakness;
- constant fatigue and reduced work capacity;
- deterioration or loss of appetite;
- disruption of diuresis (increase in the amount of urine released);
- frequent feeling of thirst;
- increase in size of the organ (detected during palpation).
Signs of development of kidney failure:
- hypertension (increased blood pressure);
- skin itching;
- significant weight loss against the background of loss of appetite;
- arrhythmias;
- nausea;
- intestinal function disorders (constipation or diarrhea);
- hyperthermia (temperature can rise to 39°-40°С);
- febrile reaction.
If one or more symptoms appear, it is recommended to consult a nephrologist, pass tests and undergo a complete examination. How to treat polycystic kidney disease, in which clinics can help patients with this disease, you will find out on our website: Dobrobut.com.
Diagnosis and treatment of polycystic kidney disease
Early detection of the disease is of great importance, because it improves the prognosis for the patient.
Diagnosis includes:
- detailed collection of anamnesis (including family history);
- analysis of lifestyle and work activity;
- diagnosis of accompanying diseases;
- review;
- palpatory research;
- detection of tenderness when tapping in the lumbar region;
- laboratory studies of blood and urine tests;
- determining the rate of glomerular filtration;
- additional research methods (ultrasound, CT, nephroscintigraphy);
- medical and genetic research with kariogram analysis.
Modern diagnostic methods contribute to the early detection of polycystic kidneys in newborns. Ultrasound scanning, which is routinely performed during pregnancy, even allows you to diagnose polycystic kidney disease of the fetus.
Therapy of accompanying pyelonephritis is provided, which allows to slow down the progression of kidney failure. Patients with diagnosed disease need regular blood pressure monitoring.
Specific methods of treating polycystic kidney disease, capable of affecting the primary mechanisms of the development of pathology, have not yet been developed. Helping patients consists in carrying out symptomatic and renoprotective therapy, the task of which is to stabilize blood pressure (decrease to at least 130/90) and stop inflammation of the renal pelvis.
At the terminal stage of renal failure, only peritoneal dialysis, hemodialysis and transplantation of a donor organ can save a patient's life.
Features of nutrition
In polycystic kidney disease, treatment involves following a diet. It is necessary to reduce the consumption of table salt, because sodium chloride additionally burdens the kidneys and contributes to an increase in blood pressure. Foods containing caffeine should be excluded from the diet, as this substance promotes the growth of cystic formations in the kidneys. The patient is recommended to limit the intake of fatty foods and proteins, as well as to consume a sufficient amount of liquid (1.5-2 liters of clean water per day).
Is it possible to carry a child with polycystosis
Polycystic kidney disease and pregnancy are compatible, but a woman must undergo a full examination and strictly follow the recommendations. If the doctor considers that there are no absolute contraindications for carrying a child, additional treatment aimed at improving the functional activity of the kidneys will be prescribed, because during the period of carrying a child, the load on this organ increases significantly.
During pregnancy with polycystic kidney disease, pharmacological drugs are contraindicated.
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