Nephronophthisis Complex - Medullary Cystic Disease

What can be done to prevent the disease?

There are no known ways to prevent medullary cystic disease once a person has been born. Genetic counseling can be helpful to couples with a family history of this condition.

What are the long-term effects of the disease?

Kidney failure is the most likely long-term effect of medullary cystic disease. Dialysis or kidney transplantation is needed to treat kidney failure or death will occur. Kidney failure can affect or damage almost any organ or part of the body. For instance, those with kidney failure may develop heart damage, infections, nerve damage, and weak bones.

What are the risks to others?

Medullary cystic disease is not contagious. However, affected persons may pass MCD on to their children in some cases.