Renal hypoplasia

Renal hypoplasia is a congenital condition characterized by underdeveloped kidneys that contain fewer nephrons, the filtering units essential for removing waste and excess substances from the blood.

This condition occurs due to abnormal development during fetal growth, resulting in smaller-than-normal kidneys that may not function adequately.

The severity of renal hypoplasia can vary; in mild cases, individuals may not experience significant symptoms, while severe cases can lead to chronic kidney disease or even kidney failure.

It may affect one or both kidneys, with unilateral hypoplasia often being less problematic than bilateral cases.

Renal hypoplasia can be detected through imaging techniques such as ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI, which can reveal the size and structure of the kidneys.

Clinically, it can present with symptoms such as hypertension, reduced urinary output, and signs of renal insufficiency.

Early diagnosis and management are crucial to optimize kidney function and manage potential complications, which may include the use of medications, lifestyle modifications, or in severe cases, dialysis or kidney transplantation.