User:Mr. Ibrahem/Medullary sponge kidney

Medullary sponge kidney is a birth defect characterized by small cysts in the inner part of the kidneys. Onset of symptoms; however, does not generally occur until late childhood or early adulthood. Symptoms may include those or a urinary tract infection (UTI) such as burning with urination or kidney stone such as flank pain and blood in the urine. Kidney failure is rare.

The cause is unclear. Most cases do not appear to be inherited from a persons parents. The underlying mechanism involves dilation of the collecting ducts and tubules in the renal pyramids. One or both kidneys may be involved. Diagnosis may be supported by medical imaging.

There is no cure. Treatment involves addressing UTIs and kidney stones. Long term antibiotics may be used to prevent infections. Frequency of kidneys stones may be decreased with with potassium citrate or HCTZ. Drinking plenty of fluids may also help.

About 1 in 5,000 people are affected. Up to 20% of people who develop calcium-based kidney stones have the condition. Women are generally more severely affected than men. It was first described in 1908 by Beitzke.