Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 2, 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
Multicystic dysplastic kidney: our experience in non-surgical management
Aurelie Chiappinelli1, Antonio Savanelli, Alessandra Farina
1Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Pediatrics, University Federico II, Naples, Italy. achiappinelli@libero.it
Insights
Multicystic dysplastic kidney (MDK) often shows benign regression on ultrasound (US) scans. However, continued long-term follow-up is crucial, even if the kidney appears undetectable on US.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nephrology
- Medical Imaging
- Urology
Background:
- Multicystic dysplastic kidney (MDK) is a frequent congenital renal anomaly.
- Management strategies for MDK are subject to ongoing debate.
- Conservative management and monitoring for regression are key considerations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the regression patterns of MDK in children managed conservatively.
- To assess the efficacy of ultrasound (US) scanning in monitoring MDK involution.
- To determine the long-term outcomes of non-surgically managed MDK.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of 50 children diagnosed with MDK between 1990 and 2010.
- Diagnosis confirmed by radioisotope scan; micturating cystogram used to rule out other uropathies.
- Clinical and US scan follow-up for 31 conservatively managed patients.
Main Results:
- Of 31 conservatively managed MDK cases, 54.8% showed complete regression on US.
- Partial regression was observed in 22.6%, with 22.6% remaining unchanged.
- Mean time to complete US disappearance was 2.5 years; no hypertension or tumors developed.
Conclusions:
- MDK typically follows a benign natural history with a high rate of regression.
- Long-term ultrasound (US) follow-up is essential for monitoring MDK.
- Apparent disappearance on US does not equate to complete involution, necessitating continued surveillance.
Introduction:
Although multicystic dysplastic kidney (MDK) is a common renal anomaly, the management of this condition remains controversial. The purpose of this study was to focus on its regression by ultrasound (US) scan for MDK managed conservatively.
Materials And Methods:
Between 1990 and 2010, 50 children with MDK were retrospectively studied. All patients were submitted to radioisotope scan to confirm the diagnosis, and a micturating cystogram to exclude other uropathies.
Results:
Of the 50 patients, 19 underwent nephrectomy, and the other 31 were conservatively managed with clinical and US scan follow-up. The mean follow-up time (range 6 months to 11 years) in the non-operated group was 6.2 years. Of the 31 children with nonsurgical management, 17 (54.8%) showed total involution on US scan, 7 (22.6%) showed a partial regression, and 7 (22.6%) were unchanged at the time of this study. The mean time to complete disappearance on US scan was 2.5 years (1-4 years). No children developed hypertension or tumors.
Discussion:
The natural history of MDK is usually benign, but patients must have long-term follow-up with US scan. In addition, many studies confirmed that the disappearance of it on a US scan does not mean a total involution of the affected kidney. We recommend a strict follow-up even when US scan shows an undetectable kidney.
Related Concept Videos
01:26Kidney Transplant II: Surgical Procedure
01:28Chronic Kidney Disease III: Interprofessional Care
01:25Urinary Tract Calculi VI: Surgical Management
01:16Kidney Transplant III: Nursing Management
01:30Urinary Tract Calculi III: Medical Management
01:18Chronic Kidney Disease IV: Nursing Management