• ABSTRACT
    • Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease is one of the most commonly inherited diseases in the United States. It affects nearly 500,000 Americans and accounts for 5 to 10 percent of patients with end-stage renal disease. Diagnosis is usually made in middle age, when complications such as hypertension, pain and hematuria develop. Renal complications include hypertension, cyst infection and hemorrhage, hematuria and flank pain. Other manifestations and related conditions include polycystic liver disease, cerebral aneurysm, cardiac valve abnormalities and diverticulosis. The severity and course of the disease vary in individual patients. Management involves the control of hypertension and treatment of complications. Genetic counseling is important. Dialysis and renal transplantation often are successful treatments in patients who develop renal failure.