Urolithiasis and Its Causes- Short Review

Abstract

The process of forming stones in the kidney, bladder, and/or urethra (urinary tract) is called as Urolithiasis. Stones form twice as often in men as women. The hallmark of stones that obstruct the ureter or renal pelvis is excruciating, intermittent pain that radiates from the flank to the groin or to the genital area and inner thigh. The stone type is named after its mineral composition. The most common stones are struvite (magnesium ammonium phosphate), calcium oxalate, urate, cystine and silica. The most common type of kidney stones worldwide contains calcium. Preventative measures depend on the type of stones.