Renal agenesis is a malformation that results in the absence of one or both kidneys. It happens at an early stage of embryonic development and makes it impossible for the kidneys to develop correctly.
Causes of kidney agenesis
The specific cause is not known
The cause of renal agenesis is not known for certain, but some elements have been discovered that may be associated with its appearance. On the one hand, there is a genetic factor that influences the disease and makes it more likely if there is a family history of having this malformation.
There are two types of renal agenesis:
– Unilateral, which is the most common, can be caused by mutations in many genes, such as RET (10q11.2), BMP4 (14q22-q23), FRAS1 (4q21.21), FREM1 (9p22.3), or UPK3A (22q13.31).
– Bilateral, in which there is a lack of both kidneys, in some cases, mutations have been detected in the RET, FGF20 (8p22) or ITGA8 (10p13) genes. Another possible cause is maternal diabetes mellitus. It is also associated with unhealthy habits on the part of the pregnant mother: tobacco, alcohol and drugs.
Symptoms of kidney agenesis
Frequently there are no symptoms
Unilateral renal agenesis in most cases does not present symptoms. The bilateral frequently presents alterations associated with malformations and problems of the urinary system, such as the Potter sequence, which is a series of defects correlated with the lack of amniotic fluid within the uterus (anuria).
Diagnosis of renal agenesis
Initial ultrasound
The doctor initially uses an ultrasound to diagnose this condition. It also requires a tomography and an intravenous urography.
Treatment and medication of renal agenesis
Differences between unilateral and bilateral
Patients with unilateral agenesis have an absolutely normal life. It is only advisable to follow a healthy diet with little salt and fat.
On the other hand, patients with bilateral renal agenesis do not have a good prognosis. The majority of fetuses that suffer from this malformation are usually not born alive and if they are, their survival prognosis is about three weeks.
Prevention of kidney agenesis
There is no prevention
There is no way to prevent this anomaly. It is advisable to have a genetic study to evaluate the possibilities of transmitting this disease to children.
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