The aim of this study is to present in the chronological order evolution of opinions about the etiopathogenesis of Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD), with the special regard to the newest genetic investigations. Prevalence of this disease is estimated at 1:1000, and patients with ADPKD compose up to 10% patients, who need renal replacement therapy. Since 1957, when inheritance was defined by Daalgard as autosomal dominant, a rapid progression in investigations of genetic aspects of this disease has been done. Actually three genes responsible for the development of the disease are known: PKD1 gene located on the short arm of the chromosome 16 (isolated and described in 1994-1995), PKD2 gene, which is located on the long arm of the chromosome 4 (isolated in 1996) and exceptionally occurs PKD3 gene which is not mapped by linkage analysis neither on the PKD1 nor the PKD2. Loci for PKD3 gene is unknown up to now. Investigations, which have been done indicate dependence between genetic type of ADPKD and clinical picture of the disease. Majority of authors consider ADPKD1 as the severe form of the disease, although it is not a rule. The biggest emphasis has been also lay on the influence of other factors. Pathomechanisms of cyst formation in kidneys, the presence of which is pathognomonic for this disease has been better and better understood. Employment of modern diagnostic methods with combinations of the genetic analysis (especially linkage analysis) afford possibilities for early diagnosis of the disease among persons, who are kindreds of ADPKD family members and are at risk of the disease.