<s>[INST] I had an ultrasound scan on my abdomen on 22/02/2013 in the Flora Clinic in Johannesburg. In the report issued after that scan I read in the statement by Dr. Stoltenkamp that and I quote There is a large simple cortical cyst in the upper pole of the right kidney . It measures 5.7 x 5.6 x 4.4 cm. Further benign simple cysts are seen in the upper and mid to lower poles of the left kidney cortex measuring 1.6 x 1.6 cm and 1.6 x 1.3 cm respectively . I have read through a number of articles on the internet in that respect, but my basic question is how serious is this ans what shall I do now.I am 86 of years of age and have a hear condition as well. Please advise if at all possible. [/INST] Hello welcome to Chat Doctor Renal cysts is a fluid collection in the kidney. The Majority of renal cysts are benign and can be monitored without any treatment. However, some are malignant and have to be removed by surgery. Simple renal cysts are found frequently in the elderly. The renal cysts have been classified into five categories by Bosniak Category I: benign simple cyst without septa, calcification or solid component. Category II:Benign cyst with few thin septa and contain fine clarifications Category IIF: Well marginated with a number of thin septa with thick nodular calcification and >3cms in size. Category III: Indeterminate cystic masses with thick septa with enhancement. Category IV: Malignant cystic masses with thick septa with enhancement and irregular margins. As per your ultrasound report it looks benign Get Your Kidney function tests (Blood urea and serum creatinine)done. If that is normal you need not worry. You can get 6 monthly kidney function test and repeat ultrasonography after 6 months to see if there is enlargement of the cyst or any change in its characteristics or increase in number of cysts. Large cysts compress the parenchymal and surrounding structures and cause pain. Pain can also be due to Hemorrhage and infection. Laproscopic roofing is the treatment if the cyst is causing symptoms and affecting the renal function. </s>