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Urolithiasis
2021-02-23 12:00 AM
Renal calculi occur in up to 6% of the population; men are affected more often than women.
UROLITHIASIS
Renal calculi occur in up to 6% of the population; men are affected more often than women.
- Stone composition. Most (75%) stones are calcium oxalate stones. Magnesium ammonium phosphate (“struvite”) stones are associated with infection by urea-splitting bacteria (proteus), and these stones often form large staghorn calculi. Uric acid stones are seen in gout, leukaemia, and in patients with acidic urine. Cystine stones are uncommon.
- Pathology. Most stones are unilateral stones that are formed in the calyx,pelvis, and urinary bladder.
- Clinical features. Calcium stones are radiopaque and can be seen on x-ray. Renal colic may occur if small stones pass into the ureters. Stones may cause hematuria, urinary obstruction, and predispose to infection.
- Treatment of stones is with lithotripsy or endoscopic removal.