Which are the symptoms of Bilateral Renal Agenesis?

Bilateral Renal Agenesis is a rare congenital condition characterized by the absence or underdevelopment of both kidneys in a fetus. It occurs when the kidneys fail to form during embryonic development, leading to the absence of functional renal tissue. This condition is also known as Potter syndrome or bilateral renal agenesis sequence.

Symptoms:

The symptoms of Bilateral Renal Agenesis can vary depending on the severity of the condition and associated complications. Some common symptoms include:

• Oligohydramnios: This is a condition where there is a reduced amount of amniotic fluid surrounding the fetus. It occurs due to the absence of functional kidneys, which are responsible for producing urine and maintaining amniotic fluid levels.


• Potter facies: Infants with Bilateral Renal Agenesis may exhibit distinct facial features known as Potter facies. These features include a flattened nose, low-set ears, wide-set eyes, and a receding chin.


• Pulmonary hypoplasia: The absence of functional kidneys can lead to inadequate amniotic fluid, which is essential for proper lung development. As a result, affected infants may have underdeveloped lungs, leading to respiratory difficulties.


• Genitourinary abnormalities: Bilateral Renal Agenesis is often associated with other abnormalities in the genitourinary system. These may include underdeveloped or absent bladder, ureters, and genitalia.


• Impaired kidney function: Since both kidneys are absent or severely underdeveloped, affected individuals have no or minimal kidney function. This can result in the inability to filter waste products from the blood, leading to the accumulation of toxins and electrolyte imbalances.


• High blood pressure: Due to the impaired kidney function, individuals with Bilateral Renal Agenesis may develop high blood pressure (hypertension) at an early age.


• Renal failure: Without functional kidneys, the body cannot maintain proper fluid and electrolyte balance. Over time, this can lead to renal failure, requiring dialysis or kidney transplantation for survival.

Bilateral Renal Agenesis is typically diagnosed during prenatal ultrasound examinations when the absence of kidneys and associated abnormalities are detected. In some cases, the condition may be diagnosed after birth based on the physical characteristics and complications observed.

Treatment:

Unfortunately, there is no cure for Bilateral Renal Agenesis. Treatment focuses on managing the associated complications and providing supportive care. This may involve interventions to address respiratory difficulties, maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance, and managing high blood pressure. In severe cases, renal replacement therapy such as dialysis or kidney transplantation may be necessary to sustain life.

It is important to note that the prognosis for individuals with Bilateral Renal Agenesis is generally poor. The condition is incompatible with long-term survival, and many affected infants do not survive beyond the neonatal period. However, advancements in medical care and technology have improved the chances of survival for some individuals with this condition.