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Bright Kidneys on Fetal Scan

06/10/2009

Question:

I am having twins. One of my babies showed `bright kidneys ` on scan at 28 week scan. What could this mean?

Answer:

This is a difficult question to answer. Although many kidney abnormalities can be diagnosed with fairly good accuracy at 28 weeks, bright or echogenic kidneys is a less specific finding. Babies with autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease typically show very enlarged echogenic kidneys on both sides, but normal kidneys also can be bright or echogenic. If the amniotic fluid volume around the baby is normal, then probably your baby’s kidneys will function satisfactorily. However, if the amniotic fluid volume is low, this could be a sign that the kidneys will have impaired function. You probably should be seen and scanned by a perinatologist (obstetrician), who may be able to provide more specific information.

For more information:

Go to the Urinary and Genital Disorders (Children) health topic.