Povidone-iodine sclerotherapy is ineffective in the treatment of symptomatic renal cysts

Purpose: To evaluate the efficacy of povidone-iodine sclerotherapy after percutaneous drainage of simple renal cysts in the treatment of symptomatic patients. Patients and Methods: Sixteen patients with symptomatic renal cysts were treated by percutaneous drainage and injection of povidone-iodine solution. The cysts were drained by a nephrostomy tube catheter, and povidone-iodine injections were repeated every 24 hours for 3 days. All patients were followed up by ultrasound examination during a period ranging from 1 to 4 years (mean 1.8 years). Results: Thirteen patients experienced recurrence of cysts, while complete resolution was observed in only three patients. Of the cysts that recurred, only partial resolution in cyst diameter was observed (from 3-10.5 cm. to 2.4-8.6 cm). During the follow-up period, 12 of the 16 patients (75%) continued to have pain that necessitated additional treatments. Conclusion: Povidone-iodine sclerotherapy is followed by a high rate of recurrence and is therefore not indicated for the treatment of symptomatic simple renal cysts.