J55

KIDNEYS - Polycystic

Description
This consists of half of each kidney; each shows multiple cysts measuring up to 1.5 cm. in diameter. On the cut surface, renal papillae can be seen in some areas, but the junction between the cortex and medulla is blurred.
History
This woman had a long history of hypertension, and died of myocardial and cerebral infarction. Histology of the kidneys showed hypertensive vascular changes, in addition to the very numerous cysts. There were moderate numbers of normal nephrons present.