Final answer:
Renal cysts are fluid-filled sacs that are a feature of polycystic kidney disease (PKD), a genetic disorder that can damage kidney function and potentially lead to kidney failure. Symptoms include high blood pressure and abdominal pain, among others.
Step-by-step explanation:
Renal cysts are sacs filled with fluid that form in the kidneys. They are part of a condition known as polycystic kidney disease (PKD), which is a genetic disorder characterized by the growth of numerous cysts that can cause the kidneys to become enlarged. In PKD, cysts may begin forming at any age, from infancy to adulthood, and it generally affects both kidneys. The presence of these cysts can lead to symptoms such as high blood pressure, headaches, abdominal pain, blood in the urine, and excessive urination.
In terms of how renal cysts can be problematic, they have the potential to damage the structure and function of the kidneys over time. As cysts grow, they can disrupt kidney function and lead to complications such as kidney failure. This condition may necessitate treatments like kidney transplantation or hemodialysis, a process where a machine filters the blood to remove waste and excess fluids.