What is the condition characterized by large fluid-filled cysts in the kidneys?

Polycystic kidney disease is characterized by the development of numerous fluid-filled cysts within the kidneys, which can lead to an enlargement of the kidneys and impair their function over time. This genetic disorder affects kidney structure and function, causing the cysts to progressively expand and potentially cause pain, hypertension, and chronic kidney disease as a result of renal function deterioration.

In contrast, chronic kidney disease involves a gradual loss of kidney function over time but does not specifically relate to the presence of cysts. Acute renal failure refers to a sudden decrease in kidney function, often reversible, and does not typically involve cyst formation. Nephrotic syndrome describes a group of symptoms indicating kidney damage, primarily affecting protein handling and leading to significant protein loss in urine, but it also does not involve the development of large cysts in the kidneys. Thus, the distinctive characteristic of polydysplastic kidney disease makes it the correct and specific answer to the question regarding large fluid-filled cysts in the kidneys.