CYST ON KIDNEYS

Glad to see you back with us @kewpie8484, and I understand your immediate concern about a cyst on your kidney. I think the answer to your question is: You should not ignore such a cyst, but that doesn't mean you should insist on having it removed. Ultrasound discovered my kidney cyst 7 years ago. My urologist and radiologist agreed that watchful waiting was the best strategy at that time, and they scheduled an MRI for six months later. On that review, they determined that the cyst had not grown, leading to another watchful wait -- this time for a year. Again, no evident change in the size of the cyst. So there it is, always on our mind, but not disturbingly so.

In my case, we had two concerns: First, is there evidence that the cyst might be malignant? Radiology often can answer that question on the basis of the nature of the images and the location of the cyst on the kidney(s). Second, is the cyst located on your adrenal gland(s) rather than the kidney proper? If it is, the threat might be more significant; an adrenal gland tumor can be the source of excess hormones that translate into high blood pressure and its many bad impacts throughout the body.

If your doctor is not concerned, it could be that the two main concerns I mentioned are -- like mine -- not immediate threats, and watchful waiting is the right approach for now. But I think a detailed discussion with your doctor about the details behind your cyst would give you a better picture of your prospects than you currently feel. And like me, you'll sleep better.

Greatly appreciate your feedback! Very helpful. Thanks!