Polycystic Kidney Disease

The Polycystic Disease topic includes research on the genetics, mechanisms, diagnosis, and treatment of polycystic kidney disease (PKD). PKD is a genetic disorder that causes fluid-filled cysts to grow in the kidneys. Unlike the usually harmless simple kidney cysts that can form in later life, PKD cysts can change the shape of the kidneys, including making them much larger.

PKD is a chronic disease that reduces kidney function and may lead to kidney failure. It can also cause other complications. such as high blood pressure, cysts in the liver, and problems with blood vessels in the brain and heart. PKD is one of the most common genetic disorders in the United States.