An absent kidney is found in
**Core Concept**
A kidney is absent in a small percentage of the population, a congenital anomaly known as renal agenesis or kidney agenesis. This occurs due to the failure of the kidney to develop during fetal development.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer, **C. 1:1400 individuals**, reflects the true prevalence of renal agenesis in the general population. This congenital anomaly occurs when there is a failure in the development of the metanephric blastema, a critical step in kidney formation. The kidneys develop from the intermediate mesoderm, which differentiates into the metanephric blastema and the ureteric bud. In renal agenesis, the metanephric blastema fails to develop, resulting in the absence of a kidney. The prevalence of renal agenesis is estimated to be around 1 in 1400 individuals, making it a relatively rare congenital anomaly.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** 1:200 individuals is an overestimation of the prevalence of renal agenesis. This incidence is more commonly associated with other congenital anomalies.
**Option B:** 1:700 individuals is also an overestimation. While renal agenesis is a rare condition, this incidence is not supported by current medical literature.
**Option D:** 1:5000 individuals is a significant underestimation. Renal agenesis is a relatively rare condition, but this incidence is not supported by current medical literature.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Renal agenesis is often associated with other congenital anomalies, such as urinary tract abnormalities, cardiovascular defects, and genitourinary anomalies. Therefore, a diagnosis of renal agenesis should prompt a thorough evaluation of the patient for other potential anomalies.
**β Correct Answer: C. 1:1400 individuals**