Involution of multicystic dysplastic kidney: Is it predictable?

Abstract

ObjectiveTo evaluate the clinical course of multicystic dysplastic kidney (MCDK) and to reveal any criteria indicating spontaneous involution. Material methodsHospital records of patients with MCDK followed in two different institutions in 1994–2009 were reviewed and data were analyzed regarding involution. ResultsRecords of 96 patients were reviewed, of whom 46 were diagnosed antenatally and followed for more than 1 year. Fourteen patients had undergone nephrectomy. There was one case of hypertension which resided with nephrectomy. There was no malignancy. Involution rate was 53.6% (15/28) for right-sided and only 16.7% (3/18) for left-sided kidneys. The initial size of the kidney was found to be another predictive parameter for involution. Initial sizes of 43 (15 involuted and 28 non-involuted) kidneys were documented. Mean standard deviation score for involuting and non-involuting kidneys was −3.19 and 3.12, respectively. The chance of involution for a large kidney on the left was zero; however, involution risk for a small right-sided kidney was 67%. ConclusionReviewing a 15-year period of our patient records conveyed data supporting current literature mainly encouraging non-operative management of MCDK. Further studies are required; however, our two objective indicators, the initial size and side of dysplastic kidney, may contribute to the management.