Related Experiment Videos
Calyceal microlithiasis in children: report on 196 cases
A La Manna1, C Polito, F Cioce
13rd Pediatric Clinic, Department of Pediatrics, Second University of Naples, Italy.
Pediatric Nephrology (Berlin, Germany)
|June 18, 1998
Summary
Calyceal microlithiasis (CM) in children, identified by small hyperechogenic spots on renal ultrasound, may indicate early urolithiasis risk. This finding can help explain symptoms and guide early detection of kidney stones.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nephrology
- Diagnostic Imaging
- Urology
Background:
- Urolithiasis in children poses diagnostic challenges.
- Early identification of at-risk children is crucial for prevention.
- Non-specific symptoms can delay diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define and characterize calyceal microlithiasis (CM) in children.
- To investigate the association between CM and urolithiasis risk factors.
- To explore the clinical significance of CM in pediatric patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of clinical data from 196 children (aged 0.9-15.9 years).
- Renal ultrasound to identify hyperechogenic spots < 3 mm in renal calyces (CM).
- Review of family history, presenting symptoms, and metabolic evaluations (hypercalciuria, hyperuricuria).
Main Results:
- CM was identified in 196 children.
- A significant family history of urolithiasis was noted in 70.4%.
- Common presenting symptoms included abdominal pain, dysuria, and hematuria.
- Hypercalciuria and hyperuricuria were present in approximately one-third and one-fifth of patients, respectively.
- Of 29 followed patients, 9 developed calculi (4-7 mm) within 2 years.
Conclusions:
- CM may represent an early stage of kidney stone formation in children.
- Identifying CM can aid in explaining non-specific symptoms and potentially reduce invasive diagnostics.
- CM is associated with a family history of urolithiasis and metabolic abnormalities, suggesting a predisposition to stone disease.