Overview

Polycystic Kidney Disease

Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is an inherited condition in which fluid-filled cysts enlarge the kidneys and reduce their function over time. The Kidney Clinic offers monitoring and long-term management to protect kidney health.

Nephrology & Dialysis · Surat

Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)

An inherited condition where fluid-filled cysts grow in the kidneys. It can't be cured — but with the right care, its progression can be slowed and your kidney function protected for longer.

14+Years of practice

2Clinics in Surat

About the condition

What is polycystic kidney disease?

Polycystic kidney disease is an inherited disorder in which clusters of fluid-filled cysts develop in the kidneys. Over time the cysts grow, enlarging the kidneys and gradually reducing their ability to filter — which can eventually lead to high blood pressure and kidney failure. Cysts can also form in other organs, such as the liver.

At The Kidney Clinic, Dr. Anil K. Patel focuses on slowing progression, managing complications like high blood pressure, and supporting you through every stage.

The two forms

Types of PKD

Autosomal Dominant (ADPKD)

The most common form, usually appearing in adulthood. A parent with ADPKD has a 50% chance of passing it to each child.

Adult-onset

Autosomal Recessive (ARPKD)

A rare form that appears in infancy or childhood, requiring both parents to carry the gene. It can affect the kidneys and liver early in life.

Childhood-onset

Know the signs

Symptoms & causes

As cysts grow, you may notice:

High blood pressure
Pain in the back or side
Blood in the urine
Recurrent urinary infections or kidney stones
A feeling of fullness or a swollen abdomen

PKD is caused by inherited gene changes, so a family history is the main risk factor. Symptoms often appear only once cysts have grown — which is why screening matters if PKD runs in your family.

How we help

Diagnosis & treatment

Diagnosis

Imaging — ultrasound, CT, or MRI — detects and measures the cysts, alongside your family history and, where useful, genetic testing.

Controlling blood pressure

Keeping blood pressure well controlled is one of the most effective ways to protect kidney function in PKD.

Managing complications

Treating pain, urinary infections, and kidney stones, and addressing cysts when needed, with diet and hydration guidance.

Slowing progression

Regular monitoring and, in selected cases, specific medication to slow cyst growth and preserve function.

Advanced care

If PKD progresses to kidney failure, dialysis or kidney transplantation, with full support throughout.

Stay protected

Living well with PKD

Keep your blood pressure within target
Stay well hydrated and follow a kidney-friendly diet
Limit salt, and avoid smoking and excessive alcohol
Attend regular monitoring to track kidney function
Consider screening and counselling if PKD runs in your family

Why patients trust us

Why choose Dr. Anil K. Patel

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14+ years of dedicated nephrology and dialysis practice

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Specialist training at MPUH Nadiad under Dr. M.M. Rajapurkar

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Multidisciplinary care — nephrologists, dietitians, and counselors

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Transplant centre partnerships with Mahavir Hospital & Universal Hospital

Long-term monitoring focused on slowing progression

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Care in English, Hindi & Gujarati, with prompt response

Good to know

Frequently asked questions

What is polycystic kidney disease?

An inherited disorder in which fluid-filled cysts grow in the kidneys, enlarging them and gradually reducing their function over time.

Is PKD inherited?

Yes. The common adult form (ADPKD) is autosomal dominant — a parent with it has a 50% chance of passing it to each child. The rare childhood form (ARPKD) is recessive.

What are the symptoms?

High blood pressure, back or side pain, blood in the urine, recurrent infections or kidney stones, and abdominal fullness. Symptoms often appear only as cysts grow.

How is it diagnosed?

Mainly through imaging — ultrasound, CT, or MRI — to detect and measure cysts, along with family history and, in some cases, genetic testing.

Can PKD be cured?

There's no cure yet, but treatment can slow its progression, manage complications, and protect kidney function — and advanced care is available if needed.

How is it treated?

By controlling blood pressure, treating pain, infections, and stones, supporting healthy habits, and — in selected cases — medication to slow cyst growth.

Does PKD lead to kidney failure?

It can over time, but not always at the same pace for everyone. Good management slows progression; if failure does occur, dialysis or transplantation can help.

Should my family be screened?

If PKD runs in your family, screening and genetic counselling can be valuable. Speak with your nephrologist about what's appropriate for you and your relatives.

Can lifestyle changes help?

Yes — controlling blood pressure, staying hydrated, limiting salt, avoiding smoking, and regular monitoring all help protect your kidneys.

Concerned about polycystic kidney disease?

Speak directly with Dr. Anil K. Patel for assessment, family screening advice, and care that slows PKD and protects your kidneys.

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Polycystic Kidney Disease