Cicatricial kidney, also known as scarred kidney or contracted kidney, refers to a medical condition characterized by the formation of scar tissue within the renal parenchyma. The renal parenchyma includes the functional units of the kidney, namely the nephrons, which are responsible for filtering blood and producing urine.
The scarring in cicatricial kidney occurs due to various underlying causes, such as chronic kidney infections, autoimmune disorders, certain medications, long-term urinary tract obstructions, or kidney damage from trauma or surgery. The formation of scar tissue within the kidneys can disrupt their normal structure and impair their ability to function efficiently, leading to progressive kidney damage and loss of renal function over time.
Common symptoms of cicatricial kidney may include persistent high blood pressure, fluid retention, increased frequency of urination, decreased urine output, fatigue, swelling in the legs or abdomen, and electrolyte imbalances. If left untreated, cicatricial kidney can progress to end-stage renal disease (ESRD), requiring dialysis or kidney transplantation for survival.
Diagnosis of cicatricial kidney often involves a combination of medical history assessment, physical examination, blood tests to assess kidney function, urine tests to evaluate for protein or blood in the urine, imaging studies like ultrasound or CT scan, and sometimes a kidney biopsy to confirm the presence of scar tissue.
Treatment for cicatricial kidney primarily focuses on managing the underlying cause and preserving kidney function. This may include medication to control blood pressure, manage complications like infections or urinary obstructions, and dietary and lifestyle modifications to reduce further damage to the kidneys. In advanced cases, dialysis or kidney transplantation may be necessary to replace the lost renal function. Regular medical follow-up and monitoring are essential to prevent further progression and manage associated
