Multicystic Dysplastic Kidney

Multicystic dysplastic kidney (MCDK) is a renal abnormality that contains multiple cysts of various shapes and sizes in the kidney. Unilateral MCDK is very common in children and usually is associated with other contralateral anomalies. There are a few different etiology theories that are being evaluated, but the origination is still uncertain. Although there is no cure for MCDK, there are a few treatment possibilities that are determined by the severity of the patient. Certain imaging modalities such as Ultrasonography (US) are used to adequately evaluate and contribute to a diagnosis. In the two case reports, both females were diagnosed with MCDK on the right side; however, the patients underwent different treatment plans that effectively managed MCDK. Introduction Renal dysplasia also known as multicystic dysplastic kidney (MCDK) is a developmental irregularity that is composed of non-functioning cysts (see Figure 1a). 1,4,7,9 It is the most documented renal cystic complication in children and occurs in 1 of every 4300 live births. 2,4,7 MCDK may be detected prenatally by ultrasonography (US), but a post-delivery screening is needed to determine whether contralateral abnormalities exist or if other complications are present. Although the odds of having contralateral abnormalities are high, the prognosis for children with this disease are actually quite favorable if it only affects one kidney. The treatment options for MCDK include a conservative approach such as routine monitoring with US or a surgical approach such as nephrectomy. Either of these treatments are proven to be effective but they are determined by the urologist as well as the patient.