From the Guidelines
Typical Radiologic Finding in Urolithiasis: The typical radiologic finding in the abdomen of a patient with urolithiasis is the presence of renal or ureteral calculi, which appear as opacities on noncontrast computed tomography (CT) scans, with a sensitivity as high as 97% 1.
- These calculi can be located in the kidney, ureter, or renal pelvis, and their size and location can vary.
- Noncontrast CT is the most sensitive and specific imaging method for detecting renal calculi, as it can identify even small and low-density stones 1.
- The size and location of the stones can be accurately depicted on noncontrast CT, which is important for planning urologic management, with larger stone size and higher density being predictors of the need for invasive management 1.
- Secondary signs of urolithiasis, such as periureteral and perinephric inflammation and ureteral dilatation, can also be visualized on noncontrast CT 1.
- While radiography may suggest the etiology of renal colic if a calcification is visible, it is less sensitive than noncontrast CT, with a sensitivity of 72% for large stones and 29% overall for stones of any size or location 1.
From the Research
Radiologic Findings in Urolithiasis
- The typical radiologic finding in the abdomen of a patient with urolithiasis (kidney stones) is the presence of ureteral stones, which can be detected by computed tomography (CT) imaging 2.
- CT scans are commonly used to evaluate abdominal pain and can detect various acute abdominal emergencies, including ureteral stones, in the general population 2, 3.
- In patients with urolithiasis, CT findings may include the presence of stones in the ureter, which can cause obstruction and lead to acute abdominal pain 2.
- Ultra-low dose CT (ULDCT) abdomen and pelvis can be used to detect acute abdominal pathology, including ureteral stones, in the emergency room with a high clinical yield and low radiation dose 3.
Imaging Modalities
- Conventional radiographs and contrast-enhanced CT are commonly used imaging procedures in the abdominal region to evaluate patients with abdominal pain 4.
- CT examinations are carried out for further differentiation, in oncological settings, and in time-critical emergency situations 4.
- Digital subtraction angiography and abdominal CT scans can be used to evaluate patients with polyarteritis nodosa, a systemic vasculitis that can involve the abdominal arteries 5.