Medullary sponge kidney is a congenital kidney disease where cysts form in the medulla, blocking urine flow and leading to kidney stones and infections. Treatment is only necessary if conditions occur frequently, and may involve antibiotics or removal of kidney stones.
Medullary sponge kidney is a kidney disease that is usually present at birth. This disease is a defect of the tubes within the kidneys, known as tubules. When urine is formed, it flows freely through the tubules in individuals with normal kidneys. In an individual with a medullary sponge kidney, cysts form in the inner part of the kidney, known as the medulla. These cysts, which typically have a sponge-like appearance, can block the free flow of urine through the tubules.
Normal tubules are small, which means urine can flow quickly. As the cysts continue to collect in the tubules of an individual with medullary sponge kidney disease, this can cause the tubules to widen. If they enlarge too much, urine may not be able to pass through efficiently, often very slowly or not at all.
If the body is unable to release an adequate amount of urine within a certain amount of time, toxins can start to build up in the system. Kidney stones and infections can occur due to slow urine flow. Urine stored in the body is warm, and this heat can promote the growth of bacteria. Bacteria in the urine can make it less acidic, which can lead to kidney stones. Also, the bacteria can lead to an infection, such as a urinary tract infection.
There may be no warning symptoms of having medullary spongy kidneys. Individuals with this condition may experience urinary tract infections, blood in the urine, and kidney stones. Commonly, it is the onset of one of these conditions that leads to the discovery of medullary sponge kidney disease. Symptoms of urinary tract infections and kidney stones can be similar and can include fever, lower back pain, dark urine, a painful or burning sensation when you urinate, and foul-smelling urine.
Treatment may not be necessary for many people living with a medullary sponge kidney. If there is a consistent occurrence of conditions, such as kidney stones or urinary tract infections, the main method of treatment may be to combat these problems individually. Kidney stones that are too large to pass on their own can be removed through the urethra with a small tube known as an urteroscope. As far as urinary tract infections are concerned, antibiotics are usually the main treatment. The doctor diagnosing medullary sponge kidney will be able to advise whether a further course of treatment will be needed.
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