Renal Dysplasia: Microscopic Features
Section Editor: Dharam M. Ramnani, MD
Virginia Urology, Richmond, VA, USA
Image Description
Multicystic Kidney Dysplasia (MKD): In addition to the immature tubules and ducts, the intervening loose connective tissue shows thick-walled blood vessels, lymphatics, and peripheral nerves. The renal cortex is thin and contains islands of metaplastic cartilage in about 30% of cases. Varying numbers of normal, atrophic, or immature glomeruli are seen. Some of the glomeruli are cystic similar to those in glomerulocystic kidney. Nephrogenic rests may be seen in renal dysplasia, but associated Wilms tumor is rare.