Association between rising haemoglobin concentration and renal cyst formation in patients on long term regular haemodialysis treatment.

Seventeen of 20 (85%) patients on RDT for six to 13 years were found to have acquired renal cysts. There was a significant positive association between Hb and duration of RDT. The extent of cyst was positively and significantly correlated with the latest Hb and years on dialysis. There was also a significant positive correlation between size and years on dialysis only approached statistical significance. There was no correlation between kidney size and latest Hb. Complications in patients with acquired renal cysts appear to resemble those of familial polycystic disease with the added risk of neoplasia.