Disclaimer: This is general health information only and is not a substitute for advice from your GP or healthcare professional.
1. What is a renal cyst?
A renal cyst is a fluid-filled sac that forms in the kidney. Most renal cysts are simple and harmless, but some can be complex and may require monitoring.
2. What causes renal cysts?
Simple renal cysts often develop with aging and are common in adults over 50. Other causes include genetic conditions like polycystic kidney disease or complications from chronic kidney disease.
3. What are the symptoms of renal cysts?
Most simple renal cysts cause no symptoms. Large or complex cysts may cause flank or back pain, urinary tract infections, blood in urine, or abdominal swelling.
4. How are renal cysts diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually made with ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI, which can show the size, location, and complexity of the cyst.
5. Are renal cysts dangerous?
Simple cysts are usually benign and harmless. Complex cysts or multiple cysts (as in polycystic kidney disease) may require closer monitoring due to risk of infection, bleeding, or kidney function impairment.
6. How are renal cysts treated?
Treatment depends on size and symptoms. Small, simple cysts often need no treatment. Symptomatic or complicated cysts may require drainage, surgery, or monitoring with periodic imaging.
7. Can renal cysts affect kidney function?
Simple cysts rarely affect kidney function. Multiple or very large cysts can reduce kidney function over time, especially in polycystic kidney disease.
8. Can renal cysts be prevented?
There is no known way to prevent simple renal cysts. Maintaining overall kidney health and controlling risk factors like high blood pressure may help reduce complications.
9. How often should renal cysts be monitored?
Monitoring depends on size, complexity, and symptoms. Doctors may recommend periodic ultrasound or CT scans to ensure the cyst is not growing or changing.
10. When should I see a doctor?
See a doctor if you experience flank pain, blood in urine, recurrent urinary tract infections, or if a cyst is found on imaging and requires follow-up. Prompt evaluation ensures complications are detected early.
