Renal Tuberculosis in Adult Polycystic Kidney Disease: Report of 2 Cases and Review of the Literature

Abstract

Adult polycystic kidney disease (APKD) is a common and potentially fatal disease, leading to end-stage renal failure in 50% of cases. The disease is frequently complicated by arterial hypertension, bacterial pyelonephritis, and hematuria. The association between APKD and tuberculosis has rarely been reported and is related to a more unfavorable course since the infection becomes refractory to specific treatment. The authors report 2 cases of renal tuberculosis diagnosed in the native nephrectomy specimens of 2 patients with APKD after renal transplantation. Tuberculosis, although not common, must be recognized as a potential source of infection of native polycystic kidneys in immunocompromised transplant recipients.