Polycystic Kidney Disease: Diagnosis and Treatment

Thesis (M.Nurs.), College of Nursing, Washington State UniversityCystic kidney disease describes several conditions in which fluid-filled cysts form in the kidneys. Polycystic Kidney Disease or PKD is the most common, life-threatening genetic disease (Breuning & Peters, 2001). These cysts can grow so large and numerous rendering the kidneys unable to function normally. Screening individuals at risk is important especially with regards to reproduction. There is no cure for PKD. Treatment options include medications or surgery for pain control, management of hypertension and treatment of infection. Dialysis is usually necessary at end-stage renal disease. Kidney transplantation is also an option for persons with advanced PKD. It is important that health care providers recognize the implications of this disease. Referral to a nephrologist should be done in a timely manner