Medullary Sponge Kidney (MSK) is a rare congenital disorder affecting the kidneys. It is characterized by the formation of cysts or dilated tubules in the medullary and papillary regions of the kidneys. While the exact prevalence of MSK is not well-established, it is considered to be a relatively uncommon condition.
Studies suggest that MSK may affect approximately 1 in 5,000 to 20,000 individuals. However, due to its often asymptomatic nature, the actual prevalence might be higher as many cases go undiagnosed. MSK is typically diagnosed incidentally during imaging tests for unrelated conditions or when symptoms such as recurrent kidney stones, urinary tract infections, or blood in the urine occur.
Although MSK can affect individuals of any age, it is most commonly diagnosed in young adults. The condition is thought to be caused by developmental abnormalities in the kidney tubules during fetal development. While the exact mechanisms leading to MSK are not fully understood, genetic factors may also play a role.
While MSK is generally considered a benign condition, it can lead to complications such as kidney stones, urinary tract infections, and impaired kidney function in some cases. Treatment primarily focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications through measures like increased fluid intake, pain management, and antibiotics when necessary.