Kidney Cyst
They are fluid-filled sacs that form in or on the kidneys. Simple cysts are usually harmless and do not cause symptoms. Some cysts can grow and cause pain or urinary problems. There is more than one cyst in polycystic kidney disease. Kidney cyst It can be genetic and can affect kidney function. Ultrasound or CT scans are usually used for diagnosis. Treatment depends on the size and effects of the cyst.
What are the symptoms of kidney cysts?
When cysts grow, they can cause pain in the abdomen, waist, or sides. The pain is especially noticeable when the cyst presses on or becomes infected. If the cyst affects the urinary tract, symptoms such as frequent urination and blood in the urine may occur.
Kidney cyst If infected, symptoms of infection such as fever, chills, nausea and vomiting are seen. Very large or numerous cysts can affect kidney function and cause symptoms such as fatigue and edema (swelling in the body). Especially in polycystic kidney disease, cysts can cause high blood pressure.
Large cysts may cause a palpable swelling in the abdomen or flank. Kidney cyst It is often harmless and is detected during routine imaging. However, it is important to consult a specialist if symptoms occur or if the cyst grows rapidly. The possibility of the cyst becoming infected or otherwise affecting kidney function should be considered.
What Causes Kidney Cysts?
It usually becomes more common with age. The risk of simple cysts increases in individuals over the age of 50. With age, the small tubules inside the kidneys can widen and lead to cyst formation. Genetic disorders such as polycystic kidney disease (PKD) cause multiple cysts to form in the kidneys. PKD can be inherited in an autosomal dominant or autosomal recessive manner and is passed on genetically.
Problems with the filtering function of the kidneys can cause cysts to form. Cyst development is more common in individuals with chronic kidney disease. Blockage or dilation in the kidney tubules can lead to fluid accumulation, kidney cyst may trigger its formation. This may be a result of genetic or environmental factors. Kidney trauma or infections may cause changes in the kidney structure, leading to cyst development.
Recurrent kidney infections (pyelonephritis) are also a risk factor. Some hormonal disorders or metabolic diseases play a role in the formation of cysts. In particular, conditions such as insulin resistance and diabetes can indirectly affect kidney health. Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption and unhealthy eating habits negatively affect kidney health. They can contribute to cyst formation.
Long-term exposure to chemicals can also impair kidney function. Kidney cyst It often develops without symptoms. However, symptoms such as pain, urinary tract infection or blood pressure problems are seen. In symptomatic cases, a specialist should definitely be consulted. If there are genetic factors, it is recommended that family members also be screened.
How is Kidney Cyst Treated?
Asymptomatic small kidney cyst These types of cysts usually don't require treatment. They are only monitored regularly. Your doctor will use imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, to check if the cyst is growing. If the cyst is causing infection or pain, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or painkillers.
Drug therapy aims to relieve symptoms and control the infection. For large cysts that cause significant symptoms, the fluid inside the cyst can be drained with a thin needle. This procedure is usually done with ultrasound guidance and is minimally invasive. Alcohol or another sclerosing agent is injected to prevent the cyst from filling up again.
If the cyst is very large and puts pressure on surrounding tissues, surgical intervention is required. The cyst can be removed or reduced in size with laparoscopic surgery. This procedure is performed under general anesthesia and usually offers a rapid recovery process. If kidney cyst If it is due to polycystic kidney disease, a genetic condition, treatment may be more extensive.
Treatment for this disease requires drug therapy to protect kidney function. In some cases, kidney transplantation may be an option. In addition to treatment, a healthy lifestyle helps maintain kidney health. It is important to limit salt intake, drink plenty of water, exercise regularly, and avoid alcohol and cigarettes.
