Urolithiasis refers to the formation of stones in the kidneys, ureters, or bladder in children. These stones are often detected incidentally during examinations or while investigating abdominal pain. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are essential to prevent complications and ensure the child’s well-being.

Causes of Urolithiasis

The development of stones in children can be attributed to several factors:

1. Metabolic Causes (more than half of the cases):
   • Abnormalities in calcium, oxalate, or uric acid metabolism can lead to stone formation.
2. Infections:
   • Certain urinary tract infections (UTIs) may contribute to stone development.
3. Dietary Factors:
   • A diet high in salts and low fluid intake can increase the risk of stones.

Symptoms of Urolithiasis

While some stones are asymptomatic, others can cause noticeable symptoms, such as:

• Abdominal or Flank Pain:
  • Pain may range from mild discomfort to severe cramping.
• Whitish Material in Urine:
  • Stones or crystals may be visible in the urine.
• Urinary Tract Infections:
  • Recurrent UTIs may indicate the presence of stones.

• Blood in urine:
  • Stones in the urinary tract can lead to subtle damage to the tract and can cause blood in urine

Diagnosis

To confirm the presence of stones, pediatric urologists may use:

• Imaging Tests:
  • Ultrasound or CT scans to locate and measure the size and density of the stones.
• Urine and Blood Tests:
  • To assess metabolic abnormalities or infections contributing to stone formation.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the size, location, and symptoms caused by the stones. Common approaches include:

1. Observation along with Medical Expulsion Therapy (MET):
   • Small stones often pass on their own without intervention.
2. Non-Surgical Treatments:
   • Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL):
     • High-energy sound waves are used to break down smaller stones into passable fragments.
     • This is a non-invasive procedure with no cuts or scopes required.
3. Surgical Interventions:
   • Endoscopic Removal:
     • Small scopes are inserted into the urinary tract to remove stones without external cuts.
   • Minimally Invasive Surgery:
     • Larger stones may require a small incision in skin over the stone location to extract them directly using small scopes and tubes.
4. Long-Term Management:
   • Addressing underlying metabolic issues to prevent recurrence.
   • Monitoring dietary habits and hydration to reduce stone formation risks.

Importance of Follow-Up Care

Children with a history of urolithiasis require long-term follow-up by a Pediatric Urologist to:

• Monitor for recurrence.
• Evaluation and management of underlying metabolic causes

If you suspect your child has urolithiasis or notice symptoms such as persistent abdominal pain or urinary tract infections, consult a pediatric urologist for an evaluation and tailored treatment plan.

For expert care, contact: Dr. Prabhu Karunakaran, Consultant Pediatric Urologist and Robotic Surgeon, Hyderabad.

Book an Appointment  https://drprabhukarunakaran.com/appointment-form/