Renal Calculi Flashcards
Are men or women more frequently affected by renal calculi?
Men
Which decades of life does renal calculi present?
Third and fifth decade
What is the most common type of urinary stone?
Calcium
Why are most urinary stones radiopaque on plain film abdominal radiographs?
They’re composed of calcium
What environmental factors contribute to the incidence of kidney stones?
High humidity and elevated temperatures
Greatest in areas during hot summers
What lifestyles and medical conditions contribute to the incidence of kidney stones?
Sedentary lifestyle, HTN, carotid calcification and cardiovascular disease
What dietary factors contribute to kidney stones?
High protein and salt with inadequate hydration
Patient presents with sudden onset flank pain that is intermittent. Patient keeps moving trying to find a position of comfort. What condition is this patient presenting with?
Kidney stones
What labs and findings will you get with kidney stones?
UA: usually gross hematuria
Absence of hematuria does not exclude urinary stones
Urinary pH is also a valuable clue for stone (>7.2 calcium/<5.5 uric acid)
What imaging should be done for kidney stones?
KUB, Renal ultrasound, CT
Will forced IV fluids or forced diuresis help kidney stones?
No
What size stones will usually pass spontaneously?
5-6mm
What medications can be given for kidney stones?
Tamsulosin (alpha-blocker)
What dietary modifications can be made to prevent kidney stones?
Increased fluid intake to ensure voiding 2.5l/day
When are patients encouraged to intake fluids to prevent stones?
During meals, 2 hours after meals and prior to going to sleep, ensuring enough to awaken patient to void
