What is autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease?

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is one of the most common forms of polycystic kidney disease. It is present at birth in 1 in 400 to 1 in 1,000 babies, and it affects approximately 400,000 people in the United States. ADPKD occurs in individuals and families worldwide and in all races.

Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a genetic disorder characterized by the growth of numerous in both kidneys. The cysts are filled with fluid. The progressive expansion of PKD cysts slowly replaces much of the normal mass of the kidneys, and can reduce kidney function and lead to kidney failure.

When PKD causes kidneys to fail - which usually happens after many years - the patient requires dialysis or kidney transplantation. About one-half of people with the major type of PKD progress to kidney failure, also called end-stage renal disease (ESRD). PKD can also cause cysts in the liver and problems in other organs, such as the heart and blood vessels in the brain.