Genetic Kidney Disorders

Your genetic makeup makes you susceptible to kidney disorders and other diseases like heart disease and cancer. Some kidney disorders are passed down from our parents; others may even show up before or at birth.

You can take comfort knowing that Henry Ford’s nephrologists have expertise in diagnosing and treating all types of disorders of the kidney.

What are examples of genetic kidney disorders?

• Polycystic kidney disease: Cysts grow in the kidneys and increase in size, which by age 50 to 60 years can lead to kidney failure.
• Fabry disease: A deficiency of the enzyme alpha-galactosidase A that leads to abnormalities in the kidney as well as the brain, eye, heart and skin. It is found in an estimated one in 55,000 males. Symptoms like high blood pressure may not develop for 20 to 30 years.

Should I consider genetic testing?

While this is a personal decision for you and your loved ones, Henry Ford’s genetics team can help you decide as well as discuss with you the testing process and how your results may affect you and those you care about. If your family has a history of kidney disorders, genetic testing may be beneficial for the health of you and loved ones.