Polycystic Kidney Disease

The initial images illustrate a multicystic kidney which is grossly enlarged, with flow through the ureter demonstrated by color flow in the transverse bladder view. Differential: hydronephrosis, renal cysts, polycystic kidney disease, tuberous sclerosis. A quick scan through the liver reveals multiple hepatic cysts. This, along with bilateral multicystic kidneys and bilateral ureteral jets, supports the diagnosis of Polycystic Kidney Disease: the autosomal dominant form found in adults, with kidneys enlarged bilaterally due to multiple cysts of varying sizes. In advanced stages, cysts may destroy renal tissue and cause renal failure and hypertension. Cysts may be visualized as early as the 2nd decade of life. Associated with cysts in the liver, pancreas and spleen and arterial aneurysms, especially berry aneurysms in 20% of cases.