Polycystic Kidney Disease Definition & Overview

Get Email Updates

Polycystic Kidney Disease Guide

Maryann Gromisch RN Guide

Have a question? We're here to help. Ask the Community.

ASK

Free Newsletter

Receive the latest and greatest in women's health and wellness from EmpowHER!

Definition

The word polycystic means many cysts. Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is an inherited disease that causes many cysts to form in the kidneys.

Cysts, which are sacs filled with fluid, grow in both kidneys causing them to become enlarged. The number of cysts can range from a few to a great number. The size of the cysts can vary from too small to detect, to cysts larger than the kidney itself.

PKD can be painful and interfere with the normal functioning of the kidney resulting in infection, kidney stones , high blood pressure , and, eventually, kidney failure . PKD is a potentially serious condition that requires care from your doctor.

The Kidney

© 2009 Nucleus Medical Art, Inc.

ASK Your Health Question

It's FREE and you'll get a response within 24 hours

ASK

Improved

620 Health

Changed

293 Lives

Saved

210 Lives
1 lives impacted in the last 24 hrs Learn More


  

Connect with Women Like You 11 Women Care About this Condition

You're not alone. Connect with other women who are going through what you're going through, who understand and are here for you!

+ Join this Community

Take our Featured Poll

Have you ever had problems with your mental health? What did you do about it? :
View Results