Diminished visualization of renal outlines in adult renal polycystic disease

Nephrotomographic and angiographic features of adult polycystic kidney disease (Potter type 3) are well documented, although comments on plain film findings are scant. In 34 patients with adult polycystic kidney disease, we found non-visualization of 75% or more of the renal outlines on the abdominal plain film. This finding should raise the possibility of underlying polycystic disease.