Kidney Stone Analysis

Analysis of Kidney Stones

Kidney stones, also known as renal calculi, are solid aggregates of crystals composed of various salts and minerals. They start small and usually pass unnoticed, but can cause immense pain and other symptoms if left untreated. Analysis of kidney stones is done in order to determine their composition and the underlying cause of the condition.

Preparation for Analysis

Before the analysis, the patient may be asked to take certain medications and refrain from activities that could raise the risk of worsening the condition. Blood tests may also be taken to assess any underlying biochemical factors that could be contributing to the stones.

Procedure of Analysis

• A sample of the kidney stone is taken and subjected to microscopic examination. This may involve breaking it down into smaller fragments in order to find out its composition.
• The sample may be sent for further analysis by using advanced divergence spectroscopy or X-ray microanalysis, if necessary.
• Chemical tests and urine tests are also done to understand the kidney health, electrolyte composition and other factors that could contribute to the kidney stones.

Types of Kidney Stones

Kidney stones can be of following types:

• Calcium stones: These stones are formed due to excess calcium in the urine, either in the form of calcium oxalate or calcium phosphate.
• Uric Acid stones: They are caused by excessive acid in the urine due to diet, dehydration, medicines, long-term dialysis, etc.
• Struvite stones: These stones are caused by urinary tract infections, and they can grow rapidly.
• Cystine stones: These stones occur in patients with cystinuria, a rare inherited disorder.

Risks Associated with Kidney Stones

Kidney stones can cause various complications, some of which can be harmful to overall health. These include:

• Pain in the abdomen, sides, groin and lower back.
• Urinary tract infection.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Blood in urine.
• Difficulty urinating.
• Severe pain when the stone obstructs the urinary tract.

Why Kidney Stone Analysis is Needed?

The analysis of kidney stones helps to detect their composition and identify the cause of the condition. This helps in determining the best possible treatment for the patient, and can also help identify any underlying medical conditions that could be contributing to it.

When to Seek Medical Attention?

It is recommended to seek medical attention if any of the following symptoms are experienced: pain in the abdomen, sides, groin and lower back; difficulty urinating; blood in the urine or painful urination. It is important to have kidney stones analyzed in order to determine their composition and the underlying cause of the condition.