Genetic disorder characterized by the growth of numerous fluid-filled cysts in the kidney is known as which condition?

• A. Polycystic kidney disease
• B. Nephroptosis
• C. Glomerulonephritis
• D. Nephropyrosis

Answer: (A)

Genetic disorders that cause numerous fluid-filled cysts in the kidney are polycystic kidney disease. In PKD, dozens to thousands of cysts form and enlarge within both kidneys, gradually replacing normal kidney tissue and leading to reduced kidney function over time. It often runs in families because it is inherited, with common forms including autosomal dominant (usually later in life) and autosomal recessive (often earlier). The condition explains symptoms and risks such as kidney enlargement, flank pain, elevated blood pressure, and eventual kidney failure if not managed.

In contrast, other kidney problems described involve different processes: nephroptosis is the downward displacement of the kidney when upright, not cyst formation; glomerulonephritis is inflammation of the glomeruli causing hematuria and proteinuria; and nephropyrosis (pyonephrosis) involves pus in the renal collecting system due to infection and obstruction, not cyst growth.