What is Medullary Sponge Kidney
Medullary sponge kidney(MSK) is a congenital disorder, meaning it is present at birth. MSK occurs when small cysts (sacs) form either on tiny tubes within the kidney (known as tubules) or the collecting ducts (a channel where urine is collected for removal). One or both kidneys can be affected. Since medullary sponge kidney may not cause symptoms, the condition is often diagnosed during medical investigations for other problems. The presence of kidney cysts and kidney stones may suggest medullary sponge kidney. However, conditions other than medullary sponge kidney can cause kidney stones (such as hyperparathyroidism) and must be ruled out.
Tests used to diagnose medullary sponge kidney may include: renal ultrasound – scan of the kidneys. This is normal in medullary sponge kidney unless stones have formed computed tomography (CT) scan – to detect the presence of cysts, if other tests are inconclusive or if more information is needed.
Kidney stones may be seen in the bladder, ureters (tubes that drain urine from the kidneys to the bladder) or kidneys. In severe cases, imaging may reveal multiple large cysts and clusters of broad kidney stones.
Signs and symptoms of Medullary Sponge Kidney?
Burning or painful urination.
Pain in the back, lower abdomen, or groin.
Cloudy, dark, or bloody urine.
Foul-smelling urine.
Fever and chills.
Vomiting.
Treatment for medullary sponge kidney
Treatment may include:
Long-term, low-dose antibiotics to prevent urinary tract infections.
Medication to discourage the formation of kidney stones.
Drinking plenty of water to discourage the formation of kidney stones.
Dietary changes such as reducing salt, protein, cholesterol and caffeine.
Any changes should be made after talking with your doctor or dietitian.
Avoiding non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), since these types of medication can worsen kidney function in people with kidney disease a short course of high-dose antibiotics to treat abscesses surgery to drain abscesses, if they are particularly large or do not respond to antibiotic therapy.
