The
pelvis and calyces of these kidneys were opacified by injecting
contrast medium through catheters that were passed into the ureters.
It is evident that the morphology of these structures is grossly
abnormal. What is more striking, perhaps, is the tremendously
enlarged left kidney that clearly demonstrates intraparenchymal
cysts (outlined by arrows).
The cysts in these kidneys were originally believed to result from the non-union of the developing collecting system and the metanephric mesenchyme. It is also possible that they occur as a result of abnormal development of the collecting system. Overgrowth of the collecting tube wall, and abnormal development of the ureteric bud appear to likely explanations for this process. In some cases renal transplantation can save these patients' lives.
