Acquired renal cysts and tumors superimposed on chronic primary kidney diseases. An autopsy study of 24 patients.

Acquired cystic disease of the kidneys was found at autopsy in 24 of 80 patients with chronic renal insufficiency maintained on intermittent hemodialysis for periods ranging up to 7 years. The architecture of the kidney was significantly distorted by the cysts, some of which were multiloculated. These cysts may be regarded as exaggerated "retention" type that have progressed and become widespread as a result of prolongation of life by hemodialysis. Their pathogenesis may be related to obstructive, ischemic and/or toxic factors. Renal tumors, usually multiple, were found in 8 patients. Another patient had metastatic renal adenocarcinoma. No patient died of causes directly attributable to the renal cysts.