Children

Children

See also Chapter 20 . Stones are rare in children. Childhood urolithiasis is more common in males in the first decade and in young adolescent females. Calcium oxalate stones are the most common vari - ety . Genetic disorders are seen in 17% of children with stones. The y may be asymptomatic or may present with non-specific symptoms such as crying, irritability and vomiting. Diagnosis and treatment should be planned such that ionising radiation is ke pt to a minimum. Indications for various modes of treatment are similar to those for adults. - Summary box 82.4 - Urolithiasis /uni25CF /uni25CF /uni25CF - /uni25CF

Causes of stone formation are multifactorial, including age, gender, ethnic origin, family history, environmental factors, geography and diet Ureteric colic is the most common acute presentation. NCCT is the investigation of choice Decreased animal protein intake, decreased salt intake and adequate /f_l uid intake are necessary to prevent recurrence Complete removal and long-term antibiotics are important to prevent recurrence of infection stones