Prevalence and outcomes of polycystic kidney disease in African populations: A systematic review

ARTICLE HIGHLIGHTS

Research background

Polycystic kidney disease is known as the most common genetic cause of chronic kidney disease. Its natural evolution lead to end-stage kidney disease. However, unlike developed countries, clinical and prognosis outcomes data of the disease are lacking in African population.

Research motivation

Mapping the data of polycystosis in African population and emphasize the gap between data from international literature and those available in our specific population and outline points for further studies.

Research objectives

Describe the prevalence, clinical, and genetic aspects of polycystic kidney disease in an African population.

Research methods

A literature review and meta-analysis of available data were performed from January 2000 to September 2023 to identify reported data of prevalence, clinical manifestation, and genetics anomalies of patients with polycystic kidney disease in the continent.

Research results

A total of 943 patients with polycystic kidney disease were reported in the period of research but the real prevalence of the disease is not known in the continent. Most patients present with symptoms at diagnosis mainly kidney function impairment and abdominal mass. Nevertheless, the mean age at diagnosis is similar to the literature data. Genetic testing was not frequent, however, they showed a high proportion of new mutations.

Research conclusions

Most African patients with polycystic kidney disease present with severe symptoms and complications at diagnosis. A high proportion of new mutations were reported in this population particularly in the PKD1 gene.

Research perspectives

Further researches are needed to better assess the real prevalence of PKD and the spectrum of mutations in the continent.