What the Patient Should Know About a Medullary Sponge Kidney Disease Diagnosis
What Is Medullary Sponge Kidney Disease?
The kidneys consist of small tubes, commonly referred to as tubules. These tubules are responsible for the flow of urine throughout the kidney before entering into the bladder. In an area known as the medulla, cysts with sac like structures develop. This causes the appearance of a porous or sponge like structure, hence the name medullary sponge kidney disease. Once this has occurred, urine is restricted in flow through the kidney which can cause various types of problems for the patient.
Can It Become Serious?
In most cases, those with MSK do not suffer any serious complications. However, the condition can lead to other conditions that are quite uncomfortable. Kidney stones, urinary tract infections (UTI) and the occasional blood in the urine are the most common ailments reported by those suffering from this disease of the kidney. According to the National Institute of Health, serious complications such as kidney failure are few and far between. The pain that may be felt isn't a result of the diseased organ but of the associated conditions that commonly plague the patient.
Treatment Options
Treatment in those with medullary sponge kidney disease does not focus on the disease itself, rather on the associated conditions. This may include medical intervention to remove kidney stones and prevention of recurring cases and treating UTI's. Antibiotic therapy is used to treat urinary tract infections and may be steadily administered over time to aid in prevention as well. The patient may also be advised to make lifestyle changes in combination with these efforts; upping your fluid intake for example. Despite over the counter so called miracle drugs, there is no cure for MSK.
Other Considerations
You should always contact your physician with any concerns or questions that you may have. These are just a few of the common facts regarding MSK and experiences may differ. In some cases, treatment may not even be necessary, providing you are experiencing no problems as a result of this disease.
Bibliography
National Kidney and Urological Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Medullary Sponge Kidney Disease. July 2008. Viewed 02, August 2010. http://kidney.niddk.nih.gov/kudiseases/pubs/medullaryspongekidney/.
Published by Angie M
In addition to freelance writing, I am currently a nursing student. Although many of my articles focus on healthcare and related topics, I write about a variety of things. Specialties include marketing,ghost... View profile
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