Kidney dysplasia, also known as renal dysplasia or multicystic dysplastic kidney disorder, is a condition characterized by abnormal internal structures in one or both kidneys. This abnormality occurs due to altered development during pregnancy. It is important to note that kidney dysplasia is distinct from polycystic kidney disease, despite the similarities they may share.
Kidney dysplasia can result in varying degrees of reduced kidney function. When only one kidney is affected, it is referred to as unilateral renal dysplasia. On the other hand, when both kidneys are affected, it is known as bilateral renal dysplasia.
It is worth mentioning that not everyone with kidney dysplasia experiences health issues. Some individuals may have no symptoms or complications at all. However, others may require dialysis or may develop symptoms over time.
Abnormal Structural Development
Abnormal structural development is a condition that affects the kidneys during fetal development. In a healthy kidney, two muscular tubes called ureters expand into the kidneys and create tiny tubules. These tubules are responsible for collecting urine from the growing baby in the womb. However, in cases of kidney dysplasia, the ureters fail to grow and branch out as they should.
This abnormality leads to a buildup of urine that should have been collected by the tubules. With no route of escape, the urine accumulates and forms fluid-filled sacs or cysts within the kidney. Unfortunately, this buildup of cysts prevents normal, functioning kidney tissue from developing in the affected areas.
Bilateral Dysplasia
Kidney dysplasia can occur in varying degrees of severity. In cases of severe bilateral dysplasia, the prognosis is often grim, and the baby may not survive, resulting in a miscarriage. Typically, the pregnancy terminates naturally due to the crucial role of the baby’s kidneys in producing amniotic fluid. Amniotic fluid is vital for the baby’s development, making it impossible for the pregnancy to progress without an adequate supply. If the pregnancy does continue and the baby survives childbirth, the available treatment options are limited to dialysis or a kidney transplant.