What Are Kidney Cysts?

Cysts are pouches of tissue that can be formed in the body in any location. They can be air or fluid-filled. When these cysts are in the kidneys they are simply called kidney cysts. Statistically, those over the age of 70 years old will have a 30 percent change of getting a simple kidney cyst.

Simple Cysts

Simple cysts do not harm the kidneys typically although they may press on other organs or have some pain involved. When there is bleeding and infection, they may impair function. These types of cysts are not simple and may be called cysts with complications.

Finding Cysts

Kidney cysts are found using CT scans, or computerized tomography. They can also be found with ultrasonography. These tests cause no pain and are easy imaging tests to see the function and growth of the kidneys. If there is a chance that the patient may have cysts, the doctor can authorize these imaging screenings to check on any growths that may be occurring in or on the organs.

Treating Kidney Cysts

If the cyst is a simple one and it has no complications like infection or bleeding, there is usually no treatment needed for it. However, if they are not simple and have symptoms that are impairing the patient, there are options. The cyst may be punctured with a long needle and drained. Using ultrasonography, the needle is guided into the cyst and drained. After draining the cyst will be filled with an alcohol solution to harden the cyst. If the cyst is large, surgical removal may be an option. Typically surgery will use a laparoscope to make a small incision and to aid in the time of recovery. After draining the cyst surgically, it may be burnt off or hardened.

Cysts are usually not a problem in most people. Whenever there is kidney pain or lack of function, tests should be run to check for cysts. A person may have simple kidney cysts and never know about them if they are not symptomatic.

Source:

NIH Publication No. 07-4618, February 2007