Overview

There are two main forms:

• Autosomal dominant (ADPKD) – more common, symptoms appear in adulthood
• Autosomal recessive (ARPKD) – rarer, presents in infants or children

Causes

• Genetic mutations (PKD1, PKD2 genes)
• Family history
• Cysts may also affect liver, pancreas, and brain

Symptoms

• Abdominal pain or fullness
• High blood pressure
• Blood in urine
• Frequent urinary tract infections
• Enlarged, palpable kidneys

Treatment: Modern Medicine

• Diagnosis: Ultrasound, CT/MRI, genetic testing
• Treatment:
  • Blood pressure control (ACE inhibitors)
  • Tolvaptan (slows cyst growth in ADPKD)
  • Pain management
  • Dialysis or kidney transplant in end-stage

Treatment: Traditional Medicine

• Ayurveda: Varun, Punarnava, Chandraprabha vati for urinary detox
• Siddha: Sirisurapathai, Keelanelli for cystic conditions
• Unani: Majoon Suranjan, Arq-e-Mundi
• TCM: Polygala, Salvia miltiorrhiza
• Homeopathy: Berberis vulgaris, Terebinthina
• Nutraceuticals: Curcumin, Resveratrol (antioxidants)

Caution

• PKD has no cure, but early intervention can delay complications
• Regular kidney function monitoring is essential

Prevention

• Genetic counseling for families with history
• Healthy lifestyle: low salt, no smoking, exercise
• Control BP and avoid kidney-toxic drugs