Urinary calculi
Urinary Calculi
Urinary calculi (pronounced: yoo-RIN-uh-ree KAL-kyoo-lye), also known as urinary stones or uroliths, are hard, stone-like formations that develop in the urinary tract.
Etymology
The term "urinary calculi" is derived from the Latin "calculus", meaning "small stone", and the prefix "urinary", referring to the urinary system.
Definition
Urinary calculi are solid particles in the urinary system. They may be located in the kidneys, ureters, bladder, or urethra. The size of the calculi can range from tiny grains of sand to large stones.
Causes
Urinary calculi form when substances in the urine such as calcium, oxalate, and phosphate become highly concentrated. Certain medical conditions can also increase the risk of developing urinary calculi, including gout, hyperparathyroidism, and certain genetic disorders.
Symptoms
Symptoms of urinary calculi can vary depending on the size and location of the stone. Common symptoms include pain, hematuria (blood in the urine), and frequent urination. Large stones may cause severe pain and may lead to a urinary tract infection (UTI).
Treatment
Treatment for urinary calculi depends on the size and location of the stone. Small stones may pass on their own with the help of increased fluid intake, while larger stones may require medical intervention such as lithotripsy (a procedure that uses sound waves to break up the stone) or surgical removal.
Related Terms
- Nephrolithiasis: The condition of having stones in the kidneys.
- Ureterolithiasis: The condition of having stones in the ureters.
- Cystolith: A stone located in the bladder.
- Urolithiasis: The process of forming stones in the urinary tract.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Urinary calculi
- Wikipedia's article - Urinary calculi
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