Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: October 10, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Differential Diagnosis for Obstructing Ureteral Stone

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Ureterolithiasis: This is the most likely diagnosis given the presence of a 0.4 cm obstructing stone in the right distal ureter, which is causing mild hydronephrosis and stranding of the perirenal fat. The symptoms and imaging findings are classic for a ureteral stone.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Pyelonephritis: The presence of mild hydronephrosis and stranding of the perirenal fat could also suggest an infectious process such as pyelonephritis, especially if there are symptoms like fever or flank pain.
  • Ureteral obstruction due to other causes: Although a stone is identified, other causes of ureteral obstruction like blood clots, tumors, or extrinsic compression should be considered, especially if the stone is small and the obstruction seems disproportionate.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Ureteral rupture or perforation: Although less likely, the presence of fluid along the right retroperitoneum could indicate a ureteral rupture or perforation, which is a surgical emergency. This diagnosis must be considered and ruled out promptly.
  • Sepsis due to obstructive uropathy: If the obstruction leads to infection, it could result in sepsis, a life-threatening condition that requires immediate intervention.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Retroperitoneal fibrosis: This is a rare condition characterized by the proliferation of fibrous tissue in the retroperitoneum, which can cause ureteral obstruction. It would be an unusual cause of the symptoms and findings described but should be considered if other diagnoses are ruled out.
  • Malignant ureteral obstruction: Tumors of the ureter or surrounding tissues could cause obstruction and present similarly to a stone. Although rare, this diagnosis has significant implications for treatment and prognosis.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.