Has anyone had a kidney cyst?

[HeadFairy]

Did you have to have it removed or do they just leave them where they are?

[EmNetta]

Had mine aspirated (needle in, fluid out), but not a good experience as petite female doctor had problems penetrating far enough, and nurse suggested medicinal brandies all round, after I'd screamed directly into doctor's ear as she collapsed on my chest after finally hitting cyst.

As I remember, it's safe to leave them if small enough, and they can return later.

[HeadFairy]

Thanks EmNetta, that sounds horrendous. The consultant who spotted it was a back specialist (he'd done an MRI of my back) and he said it wasn't obviously his area of expertise but he said it was substantial, about twice the size of the kidney on the screen. Do you if they always aspirate them or do they only do so if they're causing problems?

[EmNetta]

I seem to remember that I had a choice about the cyst, but having undiagnosed pain at the time, I thought it best to get rid of one problem. I've since had other CT and MRI scans, but assumed its not returned or not too big.

I think I was just unlucky with the doctor, but I'd ask GP.

[LadyPenny]

My doctor discovered several kidney cysts after I had a scan for cervical cancer. They said they wouldn't cause any harm and did nothing.