PKD can cause cysts in the liver and problems in other organs, such as the heart and blood vessels in the brain. There are two major inherited forms of PKD and a non-inherited form. Autosomal dominant PKD is the most common, inherited form. Symptoms usually develop between ages 30 to 40, but can begin as early as childhood. Autosomal recessive PKD is a rare, inherited form.
Symptoms can occur as early as in the womb or infanthood.
Children born with autosomal recessive PKD usually develop kidney failure within a few years. Severity of the disease varies. Autosomal dominant PKD is often called adult polycystic kidney disease, because most patients don't experience symptoms until they are adults. The dull pain can be temporary or persistent, mild or severe. PKD occurs equally in men and women in people of all races.