Kidney Cysts
At Montefiore Einstein Urology, you can access exceptional care for kidney cysts. As a global leader in urology, we are an academic-based, national and international referral site for the most complex and high-risk cases. For more than a century, we have been at the forefront of innovation, research and clinical care for genitourinary (GU) conditions.
Ranked in the top 1% of all hospitals in the nation for urology according to U.S. News & World Report, Montefiore Einstein continues to make advances in the diagnosis and treatment of GU conditions. Our multidisciplinary team of world-renowned specialists is passionate about uncovering the latest diagnostic approaches and treatments that can improve outcomes.
At Montefiore Einstein Urology, you can expect compassionate, personalized, research-driven treatment plans that meet the highest standards for quality and safety. In addition, we offer patients a full range of support services, from nutritional guidance to rehabilitative therapies.
When you need kidney cyst care, turn to our dedicated multidisciplinary team for a personalized treatment plan.
Montefiore Einstein offers the following content from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.
What Are Kidney Cysts?
Kidney cysts are round or oval pouches of fluid that form on or in one or both kidneys. Kidney cysts can occur with conditions that impair kidney function, but most often they are of a type known as simple kidney cysts.
Causes of Kidney Cysts
The cause of kidney cysts is not fully understood. Obstruction of tubules—tiny structures within the kidneys that collect urine—or deficiency of blood supply to the kidneys may play a role. Diverticula—sacs that form on the tubules—may detach and become kidney cysts.
Signs & Symptoms of Kidney Cysts
As people age, kidney cysts tend to grow in size and number. However, kidney cysts usually don’t cause symptoms or health problems. In rare cases, kidney cysts can become large enough to cause the following:
- Blockage of urine flow through the kidneys or the ureters
- Burst kidney cyst, causing pain or blood in the urine
- Infection causing fever, pain and tenderness
- Pressure on other organs, causing pain or discomfort
Diagnosing Kidney Cysts
Kidney cysts usually don’t cause symptoms and are often detected on imaging tests performed for other medical conditions. Your physician may use imaging tests including ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and lab tests to rule out any serious diseases, including certain kidney cancers.
Treating Kidney Cysts
Asymptomatic kidney cysts typically don’t require treatment. Regularly scheduled ultrasounds may be prescribed to monitor for signs of change. Kidney cysts that cause symptoms, including pain or cysts that block the flow of blood or urine typically require treatment. Treatment options include:
- Sclerotherapy: In this treatment, the cyst is drained through a long needle and an alcohol solution is injected. This solution hardens the area inside the cyst so that it is less likely to fill with fluid.
- Laparoscopic surgery: Larger cysts may require laparoscopic surgery. In this procedure, the surgeon drains the cyst and removes its outer tissue.