PKD : Medical Dictionary Abbreviations and Acronymns

PKD: Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a genetic disorder characterized by the growth of numerous cysts in the kidneys. The cysts are filled with fluid. PKD cysts can slowly replace much of the mass of the kidneys, reducing kidney function and leading to kidney failure.

The kidneys are two organs, each about the size of a fist, located in the upper part of a person's abdomen, toward the back. The kidneys filter wastes from the blood to form urine. They also regulate amounts of certain vital substances in the body.

When PKD causes kidneys to fail--which usually happens only after many years--the patient requires dialysis or kidney transplantation. About one-half of people with the major type of PKD progress to kidney failure, i.e., end-stage renal disease (ESRD). ¹

More information on medical condition: Polycystic kidney disease:

• Introduction: Polycystic kidney disease
• Basic Summary for Polycystic kidney disease
• Types of Polycystic kidney disease
• Symptoms of Polycystic kidney disease
• Complications of Polycystic kidney disease
• Misdiagnosis of Polycystic kidney disease
• Treatments for Polycystic kidney disease

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