Kidney cysts are rounded sacs usually filled with fluid. There are two types of cyst – simple and complex.
Simple kidney cysts
As we get older, it is common to develop benign cysts on different organs. In most cases, it is difficult even to detect you have cysts. One third to one half of the population in their 60’s may have a kidney cyst. This type of cyst, usually a simple cyst, is never cancerous. It would only require treatment if it grew so big that another organ or body part might become involved or was in danger of injury. Rarely would there be a physical symptom of a kidney cyst – most often it would be discovered incidentally, during a test or scan for something else. Infrequently, a simple cyst could be painful.
Complex kidney cysts
Complex cysts can potentially be cancerous/malignant. A complex cyst can have a more irregular shape than a simple cyst, or other irregularities such as a thicker wall. A scan may show that a complex cyst has features that suggest cancer. Such a cyst should be carefully evaluated as it may be best to remove it.
With BHD syndrome, it is possible to have many cysts. While most may not be cancerous, it is necessary to be monitored regularly to detect any cancer early and begin treatment as soon as possible.
