Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 14, 2026

Use of Ultra-high Field MRI in Small Rodent Models of Polycystic Kidney Disease for In Vivo Phenotyping and Drug Monitoring
Published on: June 23, 2015
Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease - a systemic disorder
1Department of Medicine, University of Nairobi, P.O. Box 19676, Nairobi.
Insights
Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) affects multiple organs beyond the kidneys, impacting overall health. Understanding these systemic effects is crucial for managing ADPKD
Area of Science:
- Genetics and Medicine
- Nephrology
- Systemic Diseases
Background:
- Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is a common genetic disorder.
- While primarily known for kidney cysts, ADPKD affects multiple organs.
- Systemic involvement significantly contributes to ADPKD morbidity and mortality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the pattern and prevalence of extra-renal organ involvement in ADPKD.
- To highlight ADPKD as a systemic disease rather than solely a renal disorder.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on ADPKD organ involvement.
- Analysis of prevalence and patterns of extra-renal manifestations.
Main Results:
- ADPKD frequently involves organs such as the liver, pancreas, spleen, and central nervous system.
- The extent and type of organ involvement vary among patients.
- Extra-renal manifestations are significant contributors to patient outcomes.
Conclusions:
- ADPKD is a systemic disease with widespread organ involvement.
- Recognizing and managing extra-renal manifestations is essential for comprehensive ADPKD care.
- Further research into the mechanisms and management of systemic ADPKD is warranted.
Abstract:
Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease [ADPKB] is one of the commonest genetic diseases. Apart from the involvement of the kidneys, several other organs, viz. the liver, the central nervous system, the pancreas, the spleen, the ovaries and the gut, amongst others, are also sometimes involved. This makes ADFKD more of a systemic rather than an isolated renal disorder. This becomes more so considering that the involvement of the other organs contribute significantly to the morbidity and mortality of ADPKD. This review looks at the pattern and prevalence of involvement of other organs, apart from the kidney in ADPKD.
Related Concept Videos
Chronic Kidney Disease I: Introduction
Nephrons
Diabetic Nephropathy
Chronic Kidney Disease II: Clinical Manifestations
Nephrotic Syndrome I : Introduction
Renal Corpuscle
Glomerulus: Structure and Function
The glomerulus is a tiny, intricate network of capillaries located at the beginning of the nephron. It's enveloped by the Bowman's capsule and receives its blood supply from an afferent arteriole, which divides into numerous capillaries...

