Polycystic Kidney Disease

An inherited disorder characterized by many grape-like clusters of fluid-filled cysts that make both kidneys larger over time. These cysts take over and destroy working kidney tissue. PKD may cause chronic renal failure and end-stage renal disease.

Disease Progression

There are 5 stages of Chronic Kidney Disease. You can be in any stage for months to years. There are things you can do to keep yourself from progressing to the next stage. Following a renal diet and taking your medications correctly are a few things you can do. Your doctor can also recommend other things. When you get to Stage 4, you will be invited to a seminar to talk about your options. These options will be presented to you at this time. Your choices are hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, or to do nothing, which will result in your kidneys not working at all. That will lead to death.