Localized Cystic Disease of Kidney

In a 36-year-old Caucasian male with arterial hypertension and recurrent abdominal pain, imaging studies revealed multiple cysts limited to the left kidney. Results of basic laboratory tests, including serum creatinine and urinalysis, were normal. In effect, the diagnosis of localized cystic disease of the kidney (LCDK) was established. Localized cystic disease of the kidney is a rare nonhereditary benigh condition of unknown etiology, and pathogenesis, which does not lead to kidney failure. It affects mostly men. Multiple cysts are localized in only one kidney, or its portion, with the contralateral kidney unaffected. Patients usually report arterial hypertension, abdominal pain, and hematuria. Patients with LCDK do not require treatment except for antihypertensive and symptomatic medicines. However, follow-up with imaging studies is usually advised. From the practical point of view, it is crucial to differentiate LCDK with other cystic diseases of the kidney, with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease as the most common one. The features that enable to distinguish LCDK from autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease are: negative family history, unilateral localization, normal kidney function, and lack of extrarenal manifestations except for renin-dependent hypertension. Additionally, in LCDK, normal pelvicalyceal system and ureter are observed, what distinguishes it from the multicystic dysplastic kidney.