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A kidney cyst is an abnormal growth in the kidney that can cause discomfort and pain. Fortunately, they do not normally lead to complications, although some may. If not treated quickly, a simple kidney cyst can deteriorate and become life-threatening. These conditions are often discovered during imaging tests for other reasons. In most cases, however, a cyst is a benign growth that can be managed conservatively.
Surgery to remove a kidney cyst is a common treatment for simple cysts. During the procedure, a surgeon will use tiny instruments and a camera to access the cyst and remove it. A brief hospital stay is required following surgery. Some people may not need surgery, though. If the cyst causes pain or obstructs urine flow, sclerotherapy may be an option.
Other treatments may be necessary to remove a kidney cyst. Sclerotherapy, which uses ultrasound technology to guide a needle, is one option. During this procedure, the doctor will remove the cyst and its surrounding tissue, which can be painful. If the cyst is a large one, however, your healthcare provider may perform a more aggressive procedure. The doctor may need to remove some of the cyst’s hardened tissue, which can pose a health risk.
Surgery for a kidney cyst is a surgical procedure that requires a hospital stay and may be associated with several risks. The patient will be sedated and given drugs to relax, but the surgery itself is not a cure. Larger cysts may return and fill with fluid. However, with the right treatment, you can avoid the risk of the cyst recurring and affecting your kidney function.
Simple kidney cysts do not usually cause symptoms, but they may block urine and blood flow. Often, they are discovered through an imaging test, which was already performed for another purpose. Your healthcare provider will ask you about your symptoms and medical history, as well as perform a physical exam. If you have a kidney cyst, it may be a sign of a more serious condition, including cancer.
Simple kidney cysts may not need treatment, but they do require regular monitoring to make sure the cyst is not growing. A doctor may recommend repeat imaging tests every six to twelve months, depending on the size of the cyst. If it grows larger, surgery or sclerotherapy may be necessary. These treatments will be more complex and involve invasive procedures.
A simple kidney cyst is a fluid-filled sac that can form on the surface of the kidney. It can be as small as a pea or as large as a grapefruit. Simple cysts can cause no problems, but if they grow in size, they may indicate a more serious condition. Most simple kidney cysts are benign and are not connected to polycystic kidney disease, which is a genetic disorder that causes large kidney cysts. If a cyst becomes too large, it may affect the kidney tissues and cause permanent damage.
Some people who have a kidney cyst may also have a condition called polycystic kidney disease (PKD). People with CKD are at increased risk of developing this condition. Most people with cysts do not experience any symptoms, although some may experience pain and blood in the urine.
