Have you ever heard that some babies are born with only one kidney, or even without both kidneys? This may sound a bit scary, but it is important to be aware of this condition. Today we are going to talk about this condition called `(Renal Agenesis)`. Don't worry, let's explain everything simply.
What is `(Renal Agenesis)`? Let's understand it simply, shall we?
Simply put, `(Renal Agenesis)` is when a baby is born with only one kidney or without both kidneys. We all normally have two kidneys in our bodies. At least one kidney needs to function properly to survive. This is a `(Congenital)` condition, meaning it is something that is present from birth.
Now if you look at the meaning of these two words separately, it will become clearer to you:
- Renal: This is the medical name for the " kidneys ."
- Agenesis: This refers to the failure of a certain organ to develop completely while a baby is in the mother's womb, that is, the uterus.
So when we say `(Renal Agenesis)`, it means that the baby's kidneys are not properly formed.
What are the main types of `(Renal Agenesis)`?
This situation can be seen in two main ways:
1. Unilateral Renal Agenesis
What happens in this, as the name suggests, is that the baby is missing a kidney on one side. That means the other kidney is normal. Fortunately, it is possible to live a normal, full life with just one kidney. In many cases, the one kidney that is left can start to take over the work of the missing kidney, so it can get a little bigger. It's like a child doing two homework assignments in class.
2. Loss of both kidneys (Bilateral Renal Agenesis)
This is a slightly more serious condition. Here, the baby does not have both kidneys. Also, the small tubes ``Ureters`` that carry urine from the kidneys to the ``Bladder`` have not even formed. Along with this, the baby's ``Lungs`` do not develop properly, meaning they are very small ``Pulmonary Hypoplasia``. The combination of this kidney deficiency and lung failure is also called ``Potter Syndrome``. Sadly, this condition is usually fatal.
What happens to our kidneys?
The two kidneys in our body are a very important part of our urinary system. Think of them as the garbage disposal system in our house. The main job of the kidneys is to filter and remove unwanted waste products from our blood. These waste products are then excreted from the body as urine.
How common is this condition `(Renal Agenesis)`?
According to statistics, about one in every 2,000 babies born may have a condition called ``Unilateral Renal Agenesis``, in which one kidney is missing. The condition of ``Bilateral Renal Agenesis``, in which both kidneys are missing, is even rarer. It occurs in about one in 8,500 newborns. Although the exact cause is not known, this condition of missing both kidneys is more common in male babies.
What are the causes of `(Renal Agenesis)`?
Most of the time, the main cause of `(Renal Agenesis)` is a change or mutation in the genes `(Gene mutation) .` Researchers have so far identified about seven gene mutations associated with it. Due to this gene mutation, the formation of the kidneys in the baby's womb is disrupted during the first three months of pregnancy `(First trimester).`
Other minor reasons include:
- The mother develops diabetes during pregnancy (gestational diabetes).
- Multiple pregnancies (like twins, triplets).
- Use of certain harmful medications during pregnancy.
What are the symptoms of `(Renal Agenesis)`?
A baby with Potter Syndrome, which is missing both kidneys and whose lungs are not fully developed, develops life-threatening respiratory problems immediately after birth.
A baby born with one kidney may not show any symptoms. But if symptoms do appear, they may include:
- High blood pressure in children.
- Increased protein levels in the urine (Proteinuria).
- Vesicoureteral reflux.
Sometimes babies born with one kidney may also experience other conditions such as:
- Clubfoot.
- Congenital heart diseases , such as holes between the atria or ventricles of the heart (ASD or VSD).
- Congenital urological anomalies.
- Imperforate anus or Anal atresia.
How to diagnose `(Renal Agenesis)` during pregnancy?
Most of the time, this condition can be detected during a prenatal ultrasound scan during pregnancy. This scan shows that the kidneys are missing. Also, if the amniotic fluid around the baby's belly is low (Oligohydramnios), it can also be a sign of renal agenesis. This is because the baby's kidneys are not producing enough urine, which causes the baby's lungs to not develop properly.
How to diagnose `(Renal Agenesis)` after the baby is born?
Imaging scans can be done right after a baby is born to confirm the diagnosis. However, sometimes the condition may not be detected until the child is a little older. Sometimes the condition may be discovered incidentally when the child has other symptoms and is being scanned, or when an ultrasound scan is being done for another reason, such as a urinary tract infection (UTI).
The main types of scans used to diagnose `(Renal Agenesis)` are:
How is Bilateral Renal Agenesis treated?
Until recently, a baby without both kidneys and undeveloped lungs had no hope of surviving more than a few hours outside the womb. However, new experimental treatments are now offering some hope. This involves injecting a saline solution into the uterus during pregnancy to restore the amniotic fluid level. This fluid allows the baby's lungs to develop. Then, after the baby is born, the baby is put on dialysis until a kidney transplant can be performed. But remember, this treatment is still in the experimental stage and is not available everywhere.
How is Unilateral Renal Agenesis treated?
People with one kidney may sometimes need to take medications to lower their blood pressure . If you or your child has this condition, it is important to see a kidney specialist (Nephrologist) regularly and have physical examinations, urinalysis, and scans at least once a year, or more frequently. Your child may also have these tests:
- Kidney function tests.
- Urine protein test.
What can you do to protect your only kidney?
Many people with one kidney are advised to follow a kidney-friendly (DASH) diet . This diet involves reducing salt and sugar and eating foods high in fiber and potassium.
Children and adults with Renal Agenesis can do the following to protect their kidney health:
- Avoid taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and some painkillers. These can damage your kidneys. Use something like acetaminophen instead.
- Maintain a healthy weight and stay active. However, it is best to stay away from high-impact sports such as football, rugby, and martial arts, as they can be dangerous to your remaining kidney.
- Check your blood pressure regularly at home.
Finally, things to remember (Take-Home Message)
It's normal to feel sad and worried when you learn that you, your unborn baby, or your young child has ``Renal Agenesis.`` But remember, although children born with ``Unilateral Renal Agenesis`` are at risk of developing kidney problems as adults, many live happy, healthy lives. It's important to talk to your child's doctor about the best ways to protect the health of your child's kidneys.
Bilateral Renal Agenesis is a more serious condition, often fatal. However, with new medical advances, there is now some hope.
The most important thing is not to panic about this, but to seek proper medical advice and act accordingly. You are not alone, there are doctors and healthcare staff to help you on this journey.
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