Have you had an ultrasound of the kidneys and found the term “Echogenicity of the Kidney” in your report? Is it concerning you and bringing more stress to your health condition? Your healthcare provider might have told you to do a further evaluation of your condition, and now you want to know what it means and the treatment for increased echogenicity of the kidneys.
You must first know that echogenicity of the kidney is not a disease or a condition, but it can be a sign of some underlying kidney disease, or at times it can also be seen in a normal imaging of kidneys.
So, stay back relieved as we take you to an in-depth understanding of the echogenicity of the kidney, its causes, its further diagnosis and treatment, and the precautions required.
Hop in to know more!
What is the echogenicity of the kidneys?
Whenever there is any symptom relating to a kidney disease, your healthcare provider may order an ultrasound imaging of the kidneys which is an important diagnostic technique.
In this technique, the radio frequency sound waves are passed into the body.
When these waves interact with different tissues and surfaces they change their orientation and are reflected back to the machine in the form of echoes. These echoes in turn produce the images of the tissue layers.
Echogenicity simply means how bright or dark something looks in a grey-scale image. The stronger the reflected echo, the brighter it is.
In the case of echogenicity of the kidneys, it indicates how bright or dark the right and the left kidney tissue layers appear as compared to other organs like the liver or spleen. If the kidneys appear brighter than the liver, they are considered to be echogenic or hyperechogenic.
The echogenicity of the kidney is a non-specific finding. It may be a normal phenomenon or at times, it can be suggestive of various underlying conditions. This can include:
- Renal amyloidosis
- Chronic kidney disease
- Sickle cell disease
- HIV associated nephropathy
However, to confirm these conditions, your healthcare provider can request a few more diagnostic tests relating to the kidneys.
Let us understand the echogenicity of the kidneys in different populations.
Echogenicity of the kidneys in different populations
Fetal Echogenicity
Fetal echogenic kidneys are the kidneys that appear bright on ultrasound imaging. It is a non-specific finding which may or may not be linked to a kidney condition.
Further investigation and testing can be needed in such cases.
Causes of fetal echogenicity
The cause of fetal echogenic kidneys can include:
- Polycystic kidney disease
- Multicystic dysplastic kidney
- Chromosomal abnormalities
- Overgrowth syndromes
- Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection
- Urinary tract obstruction
- Beckwith-Wiedemann Syndrome
- Laurence-Moon-Beidel syndrome
- Meckel-Gruber Syndrome
Diagnosis
A prenatal ultrasound is found to be beneficial for diagnosing ecogenic kidneys in fetuses.
If the kidneys are found to be echogenic, additional tests may be required to identify the underlying cause associated with the report if any.
Other diagnostic tests can be helpful for finding:
- Enlargement of fetal kidneys
- Structural abnormalities
- Lack of amniotic fluid
- Other congenital malformations
Specialized Evaluation
A series of tests that can be referred to for additional information over the reports can include:
- A high-resolution ultrasound
- MRI
- Fetal echocardiogram
- Amniocentesis and chromosomal analysis
- Vesicocentesis
Care after birth
After birth, the baby will have to undergo a few physical examinations and an assessment of kidney function to check for any abnormalities or defects.
They can be guided to a pediatric nephrologist for monitoring tests such as:
- Blood tests
- Regular ultrasounds
- Blood pressure
- Urine tests
Pediatric Echogenicity
In children, the kidneys appear hypoechoic as compared to the liver on ultrasound. Most neonates have the echogenicity of the kidneys similar to that of the liver but by the age of 6 months, the echogenicity of kidneys resembles that of older children and adults.
Causes of Pediatric Echogenicity
Echogenicity of the kidneys may or may not be associated with a kidney disease. Increased hydration can also be one of the reasons for disturbed echogenicity of the kidneys. The possible kidney diseases that can show echogenicity are:
- End-stage renal disease
- Polycystic kidney disease
- Nephrotic syndrome
- Glomerulonephritis
- Oculocerebrorenal syndrome
Diagnosis and tests
A physician may demand additional tests to evaluate the child’s condition. This may include:
- A pathology test that may suggest any kidney disease
- Test for congenital anomalies of kidneys and urinary tract
- Ultrasound to determine if the echogenicity is patchy or diffuse. And also to determine the location of echogenicity and size of the kidneys
- Kidney function test – BUN, creatinine
- Blood pressure measurement
- Serum electrolytes – calcium, phosphorous
- Urinalysis
- Screening for anemia and secondary hyperparathyroidism
An important point to note is that all the screening tests need to be done every 6 months until 3 years of age.
Adults Echogenicity
Increased renal echogenicity is a non-specific finding that can represent several underlying conditions in adults, including:
- Normal variation
- Chronic kidney disease (CKD): Increased cortical echogenicity is commonly associated with CKD and correlates with interstitial fibrosis, tubular atrophy, and glomerulosclerosis
- Acute kidney injury (AKI): Inflammatory infiltrates and proteinaceous casts can also increase echogenicity, as seen in conditions like acute glomerulonephritis and acute tubular necrosis
- Certain genetic conditions and structural abnormalities of the kidneys and urinary tract
- Dehydration and acute kidney injury
Increased echogenicity alone does not reliably distinguish between AKI and CKD. However, CKD is typically associated with decreased kidney size and cortical thickness in addition to increased echogenicity, except in cases of diabetic nephropathy and infiltrative diseases.
The normal adult kidney length is 10-12 cm, and the cortical thickness is typically 7-11 mm, being thicker at the poles. The evaluation of these extra parameters may assist in discerning between the acute and chronic kinds of kidney pathologies.
Causes of echogenicity in adults
The most common causes of increased renal echogenicity in adults are:
- Chronic kidney disease (CKD): CKD is usually related to the lower size of the kidney.
- Acute kidney injury (AKI): Echogenicity can be amplified by inflammatory substances and protein casts, as in cases of severe glomerular inflammation.
- Normal variation: Increased echogenicity can be a normal finding, especially in older adults.
- Certain genetic conditions and structural abnormalities of the kidneys and urinary tract.
- Dehydration and acute kidney injury.
- Medullary nephrocalcinosis: Calcium deposits in the renal medulla appear highly echogenic.
- Other conditions: Increased renal echogenicity is also presented by sickle cell disease, gout, renal amyloidosis, and HIV-associated nephropathy (HIVAN).
AKI and CKD cannot be reliably differentiated only by increased echogenicity. Additional parameters such as kidney size, the thickness of the cortex, and clinical context should be taken into account to differentiate acute from chronic kidney pathologies.
Now, let’s learn about the probable factors affecting the echogenicity of the kidney.
Factors affecting the echogenicity of the kidneys
Various factors can affect the echogenicity of the kidneys. Here we have enlisted some of the factors that can cause variation in the echogenicity.
| Tissue Injury or Lesions | Different types of kidney conditions can cause injury or damage to the tissues at different levels. This can involve inflammation or swelling, structural changes, and scarring. |
| Specific Diseases | Some health conditions can change the echogenicity of the kidneys. One of these could be HIV-related kidney disease, polycystic kidney disease, or a urinary tract blockage, which makes the kidney appear brighter on imaging. There can also be some genetic conditions or infections like cytomegalovirus that can also affect the kidney’s echogenicity. |
| Blockage of Renal Artery | The renal artery is the vessel that carries oxygenated fresh blood towards the kidneys. When these arteries are blocked the blood supply the the kidney is stopped which thereby also reduces the oxygen levels. This decrease in the amount of oxygen can lead to damage to the kidney tissues and make them appear brighter when doing a scan. |
| Metabolic Acidosis | This condition occurs when too much acid builds up in the body since the kidneys are not working well. It is one of the common complications of chronic kidney disease and can affect how the kidney looks on a scan. |
| Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) | Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a serious stage of kidney disease that can be characterized by gradual loss of kidney function. On an ultrasound scan, the outer parts of the kidneys may appear brighter as they are not working well. |
| Diabetic Kidney Disease | It is one of the complications of diabetes (Excess amounts of sugar in the blood) that can affect the kidney functions and its structure. |
| Glomerulocystic Kidney Disease | Glomerulocystic Kidney Disease is a rare genetic condition where there is cyst formation in the kidney specifically in the filtering unit of the kidney that can lead to echogenicity. |
| Acute Kidney Injury | Acute kidney injury is when your kidneys are suddenly unable to clear out the waste products from the blood. This may temporarily cause hyperechogenicity of the kidneys. |
Treatment for Increased Echogenicity of the Kidneys
The treatment for kidney echogenicity abnormalities depends on the underlying cause and specific condition. Here are some general considerations.
Underlying Condition Management
Treating the underlying condition causing the abnormal kidney echogenicity is often the primary approach. This may involve medications and lifestyle modifications. For example, in cases of chronic kidney disease (CKD), treatment may focus on managing blood pressure and controlling blood sugar levels.
To control the underlying condition associated with the cause of Echogenicity of the kidneys, a routine set of tests is important to monitor the functioning of the kidneys. The tests required can include the following tests.
- Renal Function test
- Urine input and output ratio
- Hematology test
- Physical examination
Let us now know what could be the precautions and preventative measures.
Precaution and Alternative Therapy
In order to maintain and promote kidney health, Ayurvedic medications might assist in the prevention and management of echogenic kidneys. Key Ayurvedic treatments include:
Herbal Remedies
- Punarnava, Palaash, Gokshura, Kaasni and Varunadi are herbs utilized for cleansing and nourishing kidneys, reducing inflammation, improving blood circulation as well as speeding up waste elimination.
- Chronic renal disorders can be managed effectively using Bakayan Swaras and Ksheerpaka made from Ashvagandha, Shatavari and Gokshura churna.
Dietary Adjustments
- Ayurveda emphasizes the need to follow a strict diet if you have kidney problems, such as less protein intake and increased food articles like vegetables and fruits. As an anti-inflammatory agent, turmeric is extensively advised.
Panchakarma Detoxification
- The detoxification process called Panchakarma is a part of the Ayurvedic treatment which helps in the removal of waste materials from the body as well as revitalizing the kidney using different types of therapeutic techniques such as Abhyanga (oil massage) and Virechana (purgation).
Lifestyle Changes
- To improve the functioning and health of the kidneys, Ayurveda advocates for healthy lifestyle practices such as enough sleep, regular physical activities and handling stress.
Ayurvedic Medicines
- Herbs and formulations originating from nature are utilized for the purpose of regaining kidney functions through respectable times by ayurvedic medicines. In addition, they may help extend the duration of dialysis, slowing down its pace while at the same time preserving renal activities free from any further harm.
Conventional Treatment for Echogenicity of the Kidneys
Conventional treatments are nothing but the traditional way of treating kidney-related problems. This can treated and managed well by the methods mentioned below.
Dialysis and Transplantation
In cases of advanced kidney disease or kidney failure, dialysis or kidney transplantation may be necessary. Dialysis helps remove any wastes together with too much fluid from the blood when kidneys fail. This is done by replacing a damaged one with another that has been sourced from a donor through surgery known as kidney transplantation.
Stem Cell Therapy
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) can potentially be treated with stem cell therapy. This is because stem cells can turn into different types of cells, including those found in the kidneys, possibly restoring any injured renal tissues.
This major progress could help patients suffering from CKD, leading to better treatment options for sustaining renal function and health, along with other measures that manage their increased echogenicity.
For a potentially good expert for stem cell therapy in India, you can contact us now!
Takeaway
So the next time when you see the term ‘Echogenicity of the kidney’ in your kidney ultrasound report, you will easily be able to interpret if there is something serious associated with the health or not.
Now you have learned what additional tests a physician might demand for evaluating the condition and getting on to the conclusion of diagnosing a kidney disease.
We can be your partner in your quest for better health. So if you have further questions regarding treatment for echogenicity of the kidney contact us.
We are here to help you every step of the way.
FAQ :
Q1. Are echogenicity kidneys normal?
The echogenicity of kidneys is a non-specific finding. Hence to confirm if it is associated with kidney disease, additional tests can be demanded by the physician for a confirmatory diagnosis.
Increased echogenicity of kidneys may indicate underlying health problems and kidney abnormalities.
Q2. Can an echogenic kidney go away?
Hyperechogenic Kidney should be treated with appropriate therapies.
Q3. Should I worry about echogenic focus in the kidney?
Echogenic foci are defined as unidentified bright objects and may be the cause of tiny stones in the kidney.
Q4. Are kidney echogenicity abnormalities hereditary?
Definitely, kidney echogenicity anomalies can be inherited. Various kinds of genetic illnesses in kidneys and other health problems may also have an impact on the ultrasound appearance of the organ. For example:
1. Hereditary Cystic Kidney Diseases:
Numerous kinds of inherited cystic disorders within the kidneys can modify how they appear on ultrasound. Some examples are medullary cystic kidney disease and nephronophthisis. Mutated genes result in nephronophthisis, a form of terminal renal disease.
2. Genetic Renal and Urinary Tract Malformations:
Several genetic problems can obstruct the normal development of our kidneys and urinary tract. Any irregularities or deformities present in the urinary tract might result in an ultrasound showing kidneys that seem brighter than normal.
References
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10416335/#:~:text=Increased%20renal%20echogenicity%20is%20a,HIV%20associated%20nephropathy%20(HIVAN).
- https://www.texaschildrens.org/content/conditions/echogenic-kidneys
- https://www.renalfellow.org/2019/07/19/pediatric-series-kidney-echogenicity-in-children-clinical-correlation-required/#:~:text=The%20kidneys%20of%20neonates%20commonly,may%20be%20a%20normal%20variant.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6646928/
- https://pubs.rsna.org/doi/10.1148/radiographics.10.6.2259758
- https://radiopaedia.org/articles/enlarged-echogenic-fetal-kidneys
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10416335/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3913238/
- https://www.icliniq.com/articles/kidney-and-urologic-diseases/increased-echogenicity-of-the-kidney-parenchyma
- https://ajronline.org/doi/10.2214/AJR.07.2606
Recommended Articles For You
Are you prepared for the financial impact of a kidney transplant? Understanding the path to a kidney transplant can be overwhelming. For many, the pivotal concern…..Read More
Considering a kidney transplant? With 10% of the global population battling chronic kidney disease (CKD) and millions facing dire consequences due to a lack of…..Read More
Curious about your kidney’s post-transplant performance? Creatinine level after kidney transplant plays a vital role in your kidney health. So, you must monitor the…..Read More
Top 10 best hospitals for kidney transplant in India with advanced techniques and best-in-class technologies to cure your kidney diseases permanently…..Read More
Recommendations To Understand Different Treatments
Are you considering stem cell therapy for kidney failure in India but hesitating because you don’t know whether it is safe or not? We can understand your dilemma. But you…..Read More
Are you unable to live an active life and undergoing repeated dialysis? Are you still suffering from pain and obstruction while passing your urine? You are not alone…..Read More
Medically Reviewed By MedicoExperts Editorial & Clinically Review Board On 29 July 2024
