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Urinary calculous disease in south-eastern Nigeria
1Department of Surgery, College of Medical Sciences, University of Calabar, Nigeria.
African Journal of Medicine and Medical Sciences
|September 1, 1995
Summary
This study on urinary calculi in South Eastern Nigerians found a high incidence of upper tract stones, with infection and diet as key factors. Calcium was the main component, similar to Western patterns.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Nephrology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Urinary calculi present a significant health burden globally.
- Understanding regional variations in stone composition and etiology is crucial for targeted prevention and treatment strategies.
- Previous data on urinary stone disease in Nigeria is limited, particularly from the South Eastern region.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prospectively investigate the incidence, etiological factors, and characteristics of urinary calculi in South Eastern Nigerians.
- To compare stone patterns with other Nigerian centers and Caucasian populations.
- To identify potential contributing factors to the observed stone prevalence.
Main Methods:
- Prospective observational study over five years involving 96 patients with urinary calculi.
- Data collection included patient demographics, stone location, associated etiological factors, and stone analysis.
- Hospital incidence rates and male:female ratios were calculated.
Main Results:
- An overall hospital incidence of 19.1 per 100,000 was recorded, with a male:female ratio of 2.7:1.
- Upper urinary tract stones constituted 79% of cases. Idiopathic stone formation was observed in 32% of patients.
- Key etiological factors included obstructive uropathy (29%), urinary tract infections (UTI) (30%), and prolonged catheterization (9%).
- Calcium was the predominant stone component (98%).
- The high incidence may be linked to dietary factors (seafood, vegetables) and soft water consumption.
- Stone patterns showed a notable similarity to Caucasian stone types, contrasting with endemic bladder stones found elsewhere.
Conclusions:
- Urinary tract infections and dietary intake are significant etiological factors in South Eastern Nigeria.
- The observed stone composition and high incidence, similar to Caucasian patterns, warrant further investigation.
- This study highlights the importance of regional epidemiological data for understanding and managing urinary calculi.