The information on this website is not intended for diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your physician for health concerns.

+90 850 321 50 00

Kidney Cysts

Lesions formed as fluid-filled sacs in the kidney that are mostly benign; rarely require surgical intervention.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Üroloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Kidney Cysts?

Kidney cysts are thin-walled fluid-filled structures within the kidney. Simple kidney cysts (Bosniak I) are the most common type and are completely benign; they are detected incidentally on ultrasonography or CT in approximately 27% of the adult population.

The Bosniak classification system categorizes kidney cysts from I to IV based on CT findings according to malignancy risk. Bosniak I-II cysts are managed with surveillance, whereas III-IV cysts may require surgery or ablation.

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is a genetic disorder in which numerous cysts form in both kidneys. Over time, it can lead to kidney failure and requires joint follow-up by nephrology and urology.

Symptoms

Small simple cysts are usually asymptomatic
In large cysts, pain in the flank or lumbar region
If intracystic bleeding occurs, sudden severe pain
Hypertension (renin secretion stimulation)
Blood in the urine (cyst rupture or tumoral transformation)
Abdominal enlargement and liver cysts in ADPKD

Risk Factors

Older age
Family history of polycystic kidney disease
Chronic kidney failure and long-term dialysis
Hypertension
Tuberous sclerosis and von Hippel-Lindau syndrome

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Evaluation of a kidney cyst detected on ultrasonography or CT
  • Lumbar pain accompanied by blood in the urine
  • Follow-up planning for Bosniak II-F or higher cysts
  • Early screening in individuals with a family history of ADPKD
  • Detection of rapid growth in cyst size

Treatment Methods

01
Bosniak I-II cysts: 6-12 month ultrasonography follow-up; usually no intervention required
02
Bosniak II-F cysts: close follow-up with annual CT
03
Bosniak III cysts: laparoscopic partial nephrectomy or ablation
04
Bosniak IV cysts: high probability of malignancy; partial or radical nephrectomy
05
Percutaneous aspiration and sclerotherapy in painful large simple cysts

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Üroloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Üroloji Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

Book AppointmentContact Us

Related Health Topics

Other articles from the same department you may want to explore.

Appendicitis

Genel Cerrahi

Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix causing severe pain in the lower right abdomen. Early diagnosis and surgical treatment are life-saving.

Inguinal Hernia

Genel Cerrahi

Inguinal hernia is the protrusion of intestine or fat into the inguinal canal due to weakness in the abdominal wall. It can be permanently corrected with surgical treatment.

Umbilical Hernia

Genel Cerrahi

Umbilical hernia manifests as a soft swelling around the navel. While it often resolves spontaneously in infants, surgical treatment may be required in adults.

Gallstones and Cholecystectomy

Genel Cerrahi

Gallstones cause severe pain in the upper right abdomen, especially after fatty meals. They are safely treated with laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Hemorrhoids (Piles)

Genel Cerrahi

Hemorrhoids result from swelling of the veins in the anus; they present with blood on toilet paper, itching, and pain. Various treatments are available, from lifestyle changes to surgery.

Anal Fissure

Genel Cerrahi

Anal fissure is a tear in the thin skin of the anal canal. It presents with sharp pain and bleeding and can be healed with medical or surgical treatment.

Pilonidal Sinus

Genel Cerrahi

Pilonidal sinus consists of tunnels and tracts prone to chronic infection, formed by hair becoming embedded under the skin in the tailbone area. Surgical treatment provides a permanent solution.

Thyroid Surgery

Genel Cerrahi

Thyroid surgery involves the removal of part or all of the thyroid gland for indications such as benign nodules, goiter, and thyroid cancer.

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.