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Published on: February 9, 2021
Childhood urolithiasis in north-western Libya
M Ben Halim1, I Bash-Agha, O Elfituri
1Department of Pediatrics, Medical School, Tripoli University, Tripoli, Libya. ebachagha@yahoo.com
Summary
Childhood urolithiasis in Libya is linked to metabolic causes and family history, often presenting in young boys. Early detection is crucial to prevent complications like chronic renal failure and hydronephrosis.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nephrology
- Urology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Urolithiasis (kidney stones) is a significant health concern in children.
- Understanding the specific causes and manifestations in different geographic regions is essential for effective management.
- Libyan childhood urolithiasis represents 3.6% of pediatric nephrology outpatient visits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the causes and clinical manifestations of urolithiasis in children in North-West Libya.
- To identify risk factors, common presentations, and stone compositions.
- To highlight diagnostic findings and potential long-term complications.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 59 pediatric urolithiasis cases in North-West Libya.
- Analysis of patient demographics, clinical presentation, etiology, stone analysis, and complications.
- Statistical analysis to determine significant associations (e.g., age, gender, family history).
Main Results:
- Urolithiasis was more prevalent in younger children (mean age 2.8 years) and boys.
- Metabolic stones (64%) were the leading cause, followed by infective (26%) and idiopathic (10%).
- Common presentations included abdominal pain (27%), hematuria (22%), and urinary tract infection (UTI; 24%).
- Calcium oxalate was the most frequent stone type (41%).
- Significant complications included hydronephrosis (34%), chronic renal failure (13%), and rickets (17%).
- Family history was positive in 59% of cases, particularly in primary oxaluria (92%).
Conclusions:
- Childhood urolithiasis in NW Libya is predominantly caused by metabolic factors, with a notable familial predisposition.
- Early diagnosis and intervention are critical to mitigate severe complications such as chronic kidney disease and hypertension.
- Diagnostic clues include family history, age, recurrent UTIs, rickets, and specific stone compositions.
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