Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease

Abstract

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is the most common genetic disorder which causes end stage renal disease. In Denmark, estimated 5,000 patients are living with the disease. Most of the patients are in regular contact with physicians due to the progression of kidney failure causing hypertension as well as cyst infections, back pain, abdominal distension and other symptoms caused by the enlarged kidneys. In this article we describe the clinical presentation, the genetics, the pathophysiology and the current and future treatment modalities of the disease.