These often present as a mass that can be felt on examination or on ultrasound scan.
Multi Cystic Dysplastic Kidneys (MCDK)
In this problem the entire kidney is replaced by a group of fluid filled cysts. It can present in two ways
Diagnosed before birth (antenatal scans)
Mass felt on examination
Ultrasound scan reveals multiple cysts and there is no function on that kidney when tested on DMSA scan. A vast majority of them resolve spontaneously. They may be associated with problems in the opposite kidney (reflux) which may require further tests. If the MCDK is causing pain, infection or hypertension, or if it fails to resolve then an operation is required to remove it. Laparoscopic surgery is possible to remove these.