Medullary sponge kidney (MSK) is a birth defect of the tubules—tiny tubes inside the kidneys. In a normal kidney, urine flows through these tubules as it is being formed. In MSK, tiny sacs called cysts form in the medulla—the inner part of the kidney—creating a sponge-like appearance. The cysts keep urine from flowing freely through the tubules.
MSK is present at birth but most cases do not appear to be inherited. Problems caused by MSK include hematuria, or blood in urine; kidney stones; and urinary tract infections (UTIs). But these problems do not usually appear until the ages of 30 to 40. MSK affects about 1 person per 5,000 to 20,000 people in the United States.
Highly misunderstood within the medical community, MSK can be a very painful and disabling disease that requires constant monitoring to protect kidney function.
Most dangerous to MSK sufferers are recurrect kidney infections and UTI's which can damage the kidneys if left untreated. Antibiotic resistant infections of the upper kindey can lead to sespsi and death if not immediately recognized and treated in-hospital.
About Me
- Cassie
- I've had MSK for 5 years (diagnosed), and have run the gamut of Doctors, including Mayo Clinic to get answers.