406 DISEASES OF THE KIDNEYS 



kidneys. This type of the condition is not found as often as 

 the other form. 



Pathology.— We find varying degrees of cystic kidney. _ In 

 the earlier cases will be noted only a dilation of the calices 

 and pelvis of the kidney with mild pathological changes in 

 the lining membrane. In the more advanced cases will be 

 noted distention of the pelvis of the kidney with compression 

 of the renal tissue so that the atrophy is well marked. In 

 some cases the renal tissue will be practically destroyed, and 

 the kidney will be represented by a soft undulating mass. In 

 dogs the kidneys may be so enlarged that distention of the 

 abdominal wall appears. 



Symptoms.— Frequently on autopsy cystic kidney involv- 

 ing one of the kidneys, will be found which has not been 

 noticed during the life of the animal, the other kidney having 

 performed the function of both. When both kidneys are 

 involved, howe\er, a change in the quantity of urine will be 

 noticeable. On careful examination of the patient (dog) 

 very frequently one of the kidneys, or in rare cases both of 

 them, will be found much enlarged and can be easily palpated 

 through the abdominal wall; cases appearing where the 

 abdominal enlargement is noticeable by observing the stand- 

 ing patient from the rear and carefully comparing both sides. 

 General symptoms of weakness, stiffness, etc., are shown in 

 the more advanced cases. Generally, however, cystic kidney 

 does not produce characteristic symptoms during life. 



Diagnosis.— This is made by careful examination of the 

 patient, observing the flow of urine, and finally where neces- 

 sary an explorative laparotomy. 



Prognosis.— Favorable when unilateral as it may not affect 

 the general health of the patient; unfavorable when bilateral. 



Treatment.— The early indication in the treatment is to 

 relieve the impediment to the flow of urine. The ureters, 

 bladder, and urethra should be examined and if diseased 

 proper treatment should be given. If the outflow of urine 

 can be reestablished, the disorder will be relieved. If this 

 is impossible, nephrectomy should be performed if the con- 

 dition is unilateral. (For Nephrectomy, see Renal Calculi.) 

 No other treatment has been found of value. 



