A person can be born with only one kidney. While not common, this condition allows many individuals to lead full and healthy lives. The remaining kidney often adapts by growing larger, performing the work typically done by two organs. People with a solitary kidney from birth frequently experience no significant health problems related to this difference.
Congenital Solitary Kidney Explained
Being born with one kidney is termed unilateral renal agenesis. This means one kidney failed to form during fetal development, usually around 4 to 6 weeks into pregnancy. The condition affects approximately 1 in 750 to 1,000 live births.
While the precise cause is often unknown, it is thought to stem from developmental issues during pregnancy. Some cases have a genetic component, though most occurrences are not inherited. It may also be more common in pregnancies with intrauterine growth restriction or multiple fetuses.
How a Solitary Kidney is Discovered
A solitary kidney is often identified during routine prenatal ultrasounds, typically around 18 to 23 weeks of gestation. During these scans, the absence of one kidney or the enlarged size of the single kidney can indicate the condition. This early detection allows healthcare providers to monitor fetal development more closely.
If not diagnosed before birth, a solitary kidney may be discovered postnatally, often incidentally during imaging tests for unrelated conditions. In some instances, it might be suspected if a child develops symptoms such as high blood pressure, prompting further investigation.
Navigating Life with One Kidney
Most individuals born with one kidney lead typical, healthy lives, as the single kidney is capable of performing the necessary functions. The remaining kidney often undergoes compensatory growth, increasing in size to handle the workload of two kidneys. This adaptation allows the body to effectively filter waste, maintain fluid balance, and regulate blood pressure.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important for anyone with a solitary kidney. This includes staying well-hydrated and adopting a balanced diet. While specific dietary restrictions are generally not needed, avoiding excessive protein intake and reducing salt can be beneficial for kidney health. Regular physical activity is also encouraged.
Participation in certain contact sports, such as football, hockey, or martial arts, warrants careful consideration due to the potential for kidney injury. While kidney injuries from sports are uncommon, an injury to the single kidney could have significant implications. Discussing appropriate activities with a healthcare provider and considering protective gear, like padded vests, can help minimize risks.
Long-Term Health and Care
Long-term care for individuals with a solitary kidney involves regular medical monitoring to preserve kidney health. Annual check-ups with a healthcare provider, such as a nephrologist, are recommended to assess kidney function and detect any changes. These appointments often include monitoring blood pressure, which can become elevated in some individuals with a single kidney.
Urine tests are performed to check for the presence of protein, known as proteinuria or albuminuria, which can indicate stress on the kidney’s filtering units. Blood tests, such as those measuring glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and creatinine levels, provide information on how effectively the kidney is filtering waste. If concerns arise, medication may be prescribed to manage blood pressure and protect kidney function.
While many people with a solitary kidney experience no issues, some may have a mild decrease in kidney function later in life, often after 25 years or more. The goal of ongoing care is to proactively manage any potential issues, such as high blood pressure or proteinuria, and to support the health of the single kidney throughout a person’s life.