What symptom is commonly associated with polycystic kidney disease?

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Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is characterized by the formation of numerous cysts in the kidneys, which can lead to various symptoms as the condition progresses. One of the hallmark symptoms associated with PKD is abdominal flank pain. This pain typically arises due to the enlargement of the kidneys from cyst growth, which can put pressure on adjacent structures and cause discomfort or pain in the flank area.

The development of cysts can also lead to increased kidney size and may provoke stretching of the renal capsule, further contributing to flank pain. Additionally, as the disease progresses, complications such as kidney stones or infections can also cause similar discomfort.

While anemia, edema, and jaundice can occur with other renal or systemic conditions, they are not specifically characteristic of PKD. Anemia may arise due to chronic kidney disease over time due to decreased erythropoietin production; edema can occur in various kidney disorders but is not a classic symptom in the early stages of PKD; and jaundice is more closely associated with liver pathology rather than directly with PKD.

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