Q: I am 44 years old and suffering from polycystic kidney disease since june 99 and on dialysis since then. I wish to know if there is any way to burst the cysts, so that the blockage is removed. I am even willing to join and offer myself for research and clinical trials so as to find a cure to this disease so that others can get solace and not suffer like me.

A:Bursting of cysts has not been found to be of any use under ordinary circumstances to improve kidney function. It is only done if there is severe pain or uncontrolled infection or bleeding. The gene for the disease has been isolated and it is likely that in future treatment and cure for this disease becomes available. There is not specific need for you to offer for any research. But, first it has to be evaluated in animal models of the disease.