Since 1995 - Non Profit Healthcare Advice

Multicystic Dysplastic Kidney

09/16/2008

Question:

At our 20 week ultrasound and subsequent Level II untrasound, we were told that our baby has one (right) multicystic dysplastic kidney. The Dr. indicated she didn`t see any healthy kidney tissue remaining and that the kidney wouldn`t function. We`ve read about the risks of bilateral multicystic kidneys. What are the chances that the other kidney will develop these cysts? Is bilateral multicystic dysplastic kidneys something the doctors would have already seen?

Answer:

Yes–the perinatologist should have identified the other kidney. If it were multicystic dysplastic or absent, then there should be little or no amniotic fluid around your baby. Multicystic kidney affects approximately 1 in 1000 babies and we do not know the cause. Most children with this live long healthy lives with normal kidney function and with a single functioning kidney.

For more information:

Go to the Urinary and Genital Disorders (Children) health topic.