Congenital Kidney Malformation Treatment in Charleston, SC

The physicians at Lowcountry Urology Clinics of Charleston SC have years of experience in the detection and treatment of conditions associated with congenital kidney malformations. Here are answers to a few commonly asked questions about congenital kidney malformations.

What are congenital kidney malformations?

Congenital kidney malformations are kidneys that have not developed properly, due to traits inherited from your parents. These differ from acquired kidney malformations that result from lifestyle or environmental causes. There are several different types of congenital kidney malformations.

What are the types of congenital kidney malformations, and how are they treated?

Here are a few congenital kidney malformations and their treatments, when available.

Hydronephrosis is “water inside the kidney” usually caused by an obstructed urine flow. It can lead to atrophy, or wasting away, of the kidney. Treatment involves removing the obstruction and draining the collected urine.

Duplex kidney is the presence of four kidneys instead of two. This often produces no complications, but treatable urinary tract infections occur occasionally.

Duplicated ureter is the most common kidney abnormality. Here, two ureters drain a single kidney. Again, this may cause a greater occurrence of urinary tract infections, which are treatable.

Horseshoe kidney, where two kidneys fuse into one, and resemble a horseshoe. Can lead to stones, obstructions and infections, which are treatable.

Cystic Kidney Disease, where cysts form and grow in the kidney. Can cause enlargement of the kidney, greater risk for infection and pain and eventual loss of kidney function. There is no treatment, but your Urologist will address your symptoms and regularly monitor your good kidney to make sure it is functioning properly. Your Urologist may recommend removing the failed kidney surgically.

Treat Your Congenital Kidney Malformations at Lowcountry Urology Clinics Today!

With many congenital kidney malformations, there is no cure, but your Urologist can help you successfully manage your symptoms. So contact Lowcountry Urology Clinics of Charleston SC, and start feeling better!