User:Mr. Ibrahem/Kidney dysplasia

Kidney dysplasia, also known as multicystic dysplastic kidney (MCDK), is when the internal structures of one or both kidneys do not form properly during early development. If one kidney is affected, often there are no symptoms, though in some cases the kidney enlarges and causes pain. Complications can include hydronephrosis, high blood pressure, urinary tract infections (UTI), or kidney failure. If both kidneys are severely affected the child may die around the time of birth.

The cause includes a numbers of genetic mutations and exposure to certain drugs or medications during pregnancy. The underlying mechanism involves urine being unable to flow through the tubules within the kidneys resulting in cyst formation. Diagnosis is generally by ultrasound, either before or after birth.

If only a single kidney is affected and no symptoms are present follow-up to look for potential complications may be all that is required. If both kidneys are affected dialysis or a kidney transplant may be required. In some cases the affected kidney may shrink in size. Kidney dysplasia affects about 1 in 4,000 newborns. It was first described in 1836.