🧬 Renal Agenesis
Definition: A congenital condition where one (unilateral) or both (bilateral) kidneys fail to develop during fetal growth.
Types:
- Unilateral Renal Agenesis (URA): Absence of one kidney.
- Bilateral Renal Agenesis (BRA): Absence of both kidneys.
Causes:
- Genetic mutations affecting kidney development.
- Maternal diabetes.
- Environmental factors like certain medications or toxins.
Symptoms:
- URA: Often asymptomatic; however, potential complications include high blood pressure and urinary tract infections.
- BRA: Severe respiratory distress due to underdeveloped lungs, leading to neonatal death.
Diagnosis:
- Prenatal ultrasound or postnatal imaging (CT/MRI).
Treatment:
- URA: May not require treatment if the remaining kidney functions well.
- BRA: Fatal shortly after birth due to pulmonary hypoplasia.