Metabolic syndrome to larger renal cysts

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is associated with larger renal cysts, indicating that managing MetS could be a potential strategy to limit the progression of renal cysts, according to a study. However, further research is needed to establish a causal relationship.

In the study, 467 patients with renal cysts were divided into 2 groups: those with small cysts (≤1.5 cm³) and those with large cysts (>1.5 cm³) based on the median cyst volume. Multivariate logistic regression analysis found that patients with MetS were significantly more likely to have larger cysts (OR 1.941, P = 0.002). In addition, multiple cysts were associated with larger sizes, while higher serum globulin levels appeared to reduce cyst size.

The study authors concluded, “Our study reveals the association between MetS and the size of renal cysts…The administration of MetS may help limit the development of renal cysts.”

Reference
Tao B, Gu D, Wang K, et al. Association Between Metabolic Syndrome and the Size of Renal Cysts: A Cross-Sectional Study. Diabetes Metab Syndr Obes. 2024;17:3795-3802. doi: 10.2147/DMSO.S479665. PMID: 39430136; PMCID: PMC11491088.