Kidneys are bean shaped organs and are an important part of the urinary system. The main function of the kidneys is to eliminate waste and toxins from the body. Sometimes due to over accumulation of toxins or calcium deposits, cysts can form in the kidneys. Age is also a factor responsible for the growth of cysts in the kidneys. A cyst is a small sac filled with fluid and located anywhere in the body. A renal cyst, which is also known as a kidney cyst, can be located in either or both the kidneys. There are two types of renal cysts - simple and complex renal cysts.
When there are calcifications in the inner lining of the kidneys, it can lead to the formation of kidney cysts. A complex renal cyst has septations (septa) or thick walls within the cyst itself. Some parts of the cyst are richly supplied with blood. Individuals who are above 50 years of age at a higher risk of developing complex renal cysts as compared to others. Polycystic kidney disease can also be one of the reasons for the formation of this kidney disorder. In some cases, complex kidney cyst can be a congenital defect caused due to obstructed tubules of the kidneys. Let us now take a look at the symptoms and treatment methods for complex renal cysts.
Complex Renal Cyst Symptoms
In most of the cases, complex renal cysts hardly show any symptoms. Their presence can be detected only when an individual undergoes a sonography or a medical examination for some other ailment. However here are a few symptoms of this kidney disease.
A dull throbbing pain can be felt in the lower back region, especially where the kidneys are located. This symptom is similar to the kidney stones symptom.
Blood in urine (hematuria), as a sign of kidney infection can be observed. The individual may also feel burning sensation while urinating.
Upper abdominal pain and pressure is also one of the symptoms of complex renal cysts.
Some individuals may also suffer from fever, vomiting induced nausea and generalized body weakness.
Complex Renal Cyst Treatment
Some of the cysts can be benign, whereas few others can be malignant in nature. Whatever be the nature of the cyst, it is very essential to undergo treatment for this health disorder, in case it causes damage to the kidneys which can result in kidney failure. Before administering treatment, the doctor may advise the patient to undergo a series of tests like blood test, urine test, CT and MRI scan to diagnose the exact condition. Once the diagnosis is done, the doctor may administer treatment according to the symptoms observed. A simple kidney cyst may not require any major treatment and may go away after a period of time. But in case of complex kidney cysts, removal is necessary to stop it from spreading. Pain killers may be prescribed to provide relief from pain. The doctor may puncture the cyst and fill it with alcohol to destroy the cyst. This procedure is known as percutaneous sclerotherapy. Surgical procedures are also carried out to completely remove the cyst from the kidneys. Timely medical treatment is essential to avoid complications like a burst or an infected cyst, which can become a life-threatening condition.
