An update on management of renal colic

Renal tract pain is a common presentation in the primary care setting that can masquerade as other abdominopelvic conditions, and vice versa. A stepwise approach to a patient with renal tract pain can aid immensely in formulating an accurate diagnosis and providing optimal care.

The aim of this article is to present current evidence-based recommendations for renal tract pain to assist in its diagnosis, assessment and management.

Renal tract pain is mediated by a surge in prostaglandin release, leading to arterial vasodilatation, increased vascular permeability, and subsequently ureteric oedema and spasms. Referred and migratory pain are hallmarks of this condition and are unique to renal colic because of the progressive passage of the stone along the ureter. Diagnosis requires a stepwise approach with history-taking, assessment, blood tests and imaging. Successful management of renal tract pain necessitates a combination of analgesia and medical expulsive therapy, failing which surgical intervention is required.