Multicystic Dysplastic Kidney Disease (MCDK): Risk During Pregnancy

Question
I'm 37 years old, my husband is 30. I have 4 children, 3 to my 1st husband, all healthy. 1 with my second husband, he has MCDK Disease. I'm pregnant with my 5th baby. What are the chances of this disease happening again?

Answer
Dear Pip

Multicystic dysplastic kidney disease is a rare disease which can be either uni or bilateral. Unilateral disease with normal chromosomal pattern and absence of other malformations together with adequate amniotic fluids during pregnancy (to allow lung maturation) are reassuring and does not affect the future quality of life. It usually involute with time as evidenced by serial ultrasound examinations. Complete resolution rate was reported to be around 40%. On the other hand, bilateral disease carries bad prognosis and is almost always fatal.

The incidence of this disease is 1:2600-3600 cases. i.e. it occurs sporadic with unknown etiology. Unfortunately, I am not aware of the risk of recuurence in subsequent pregnancy. A neonatologist or pediatrician should be able to provide u with such information.

Good Luck