Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a hereditary condition characterised by the growth of cysts (sacs of fluid) on the kidneys. PKD can affect both kidneys, with cysts growing and multiplying until they constrict the healthy kidney tissues and affect kidney function. PKD can cause hypertension, kidney stones, frequent urinary tract infections and brain aneurysms (bulging of brain arteries).
There are 2 types of PKD:
- Adult polycystic kidney disease
- Infantile polycystic kidney disease (rare)