Simple Renal Cyst Significance — ESENeph MCQ

Correct answer: A — No – simple renal cysts are extremely common (50% prevalence by age 50), are almost always incidental, and do not cause CKD; the cause of his CKD should be investigated separately

Simple renal cysts are among the most common incidental findings on renal imaging, increasing in prevalence with age (present in >50% of people over 50). They are benign, do not impair kidney function, and do not require treatment unless causing symptoms (pain from rupture or obstruction). They should be distinguished from complex cysts (Bosniak classification – septated, calcified, or enhancing features warrant further evaluation for malignancy). ADPKD requires bilateral, multiple cysts meeting Ravine/Pei diagnostic criteria. A single simple cyst does not indicate ADPKD.

Reference: NICE – CKD Pathway; Bosniak Classification 2019 Update