Introduction:
Infection stones, which are also called staghorn calculi or struvite stones, are a kind of kidney stone that arises due to a urinary tract infection caused by particular bacteria. These stones consist of magnesium ammonium phosphate (MAP) and are usually sizable and have an uneven shape, resulting in severe discomfort and pain for patients. This article will examine the reasons behind, indications of, diagnosis, and available remedies for infection stones.
What Are the Causes of Infection Stones?
Infection stones, also referred to as struvite stones or staghorn calculi, are a type of kidney stone that develops due to bacterial infections in the urinary tract. The following are the primary causes of infection stones:
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) - Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can cause infection stones. Bacteria that cause UTIs create a shield called a biofilm that helps them grow and reproduce in the urinary tract. The bacteria make a substance called urease that turns urea into ammonia, which changes the urine's pH level and helps create struvite stones.
Structural Abnormalities - When there are problems with the way the urinary tract is built, like something blocking the urine flow or urine going back into the kidneys, the urine can become still and not move. This can make it easier for bacteria to grow and cause stones to form.
Recurrent UTIs - Recurrent UTIs can increase the risk of infection stones, as each infection can introduce more bacteria into the urinary tract, leading to further stone formation.
Chronic Catheterization - Patients who require chronic catheterization, such as those with spinal cord injuries or neurogenic bladder, are also at a higher risk of developing infection stones. When a foreign object is present in the urinary tract, it can cause the growth of bacteria and the formation of a biofilm.
Metabolic Disorders - Certain metabolic disorders, such as hyperparathyroidism or renal tubular acidosis, can increase the risk of stone formation by altering the chemical composition of the urine and promoting crystal formation.
What are the Symptoms of Infection Stones?
The symptoms of infection stones vary depending on the stone's size and location, as well as the infection's severity. Here are the symptoms of infection stones with subheadings:
Abdominal or Back Pain: Infection stones can cause mild to severe pain in the lower abdomen or back. The pain may be constant, sharp, stabbing, or dull and intermittent.
Increased Frequency and Urgency of Urination: People with infection stones may feel the need to urinate more frequently than usual. They may also experience a sense of urgency to urinate, even if their bladder is not full.
Hematuria: Infection stones can cause visible or microscopic blood in the urine.
Cloudy or Malodorous Urine: Infection stones can cause the urine to become discolored, cloudy, or malodorous.
Fever and Chills: People with infection stones may experience fever and chills, which could indicate a more severe infection.
Nausea and Vomiting: If the stone is large or obstructing the urinary tract, it can cause nausea and vomiting.
Difficulty Passing Urine: If the infection stone is large or causes a blockage, it may be difficult or painful to pass urine.
How to Diagnose Infection Stones?
The diagnosis of infection stones requires a comprehensive approach that involves several steps:
Medical History: The first step involves taking a detailed medical history of the patient. This includes questions about symptoms like pain, discomfort, and urinary frequency, as well as any history of urinary tract infections.
Physical Examination: A physical examination is conducted to evaluate the patient's overall health and to look for any signs of infection or inflammation in the urinary tract.
Urinalysis: A urinalysis is performed to test a urine sample for signs of infection, such as white blood cells, bacteria, and other irregularities.
Imaging Tests: Imaging tests, like X-rays, ultrasounds, and CT (computed tomography) scans, are used to detect the presence of stones in the urinary tract. These tests also help to determine the size, location, and number of stones.
Stone Analysis: If stones are present in the urinary tract, they can be analyzed in a laboratory to determine their composition. In the case of infection stones, magnesium ammonium phosphate is the typical composition.
Bacterial Culture: To identify the specific type of bacteria causing the infection, a bacterial culture may be performed. This information helps guide treatment and prevent future infections.
What is the Treatment for Infection Stones?
Treatment for infection stones involves addressing both the infection and the stones themselves. Some common treatment options for infection stones:
Antibiotics: Antibiotics are used to treat the urinary tract infection that is causing the formation of infection stones. A prescription of antibiotics is given by the healthcare provider to remove the bacteria from the urinary tract.
Surgery: Surgery is recommended when the infection stones are large or if they are causing significant pain or damage to the kidneys. The procedure involves removing the infection stones and is done under anesthesia.
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL): ESWL is a procedure that does not require surgery and uses shock waves to break up infected stones into smaller pieces that can be passed through urine more easily.
Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL): PCNL is a type of surgery that is minimally invasive, where a small incision is made in the back and a scope is used to take out the infected stones.
Diet and Lifestyle Changes: Diet and lifestyle changes can prevent the future formation of infectious stones. Drinking plenty of water, reducing salt and animal protein intake, and maintaining a healthy weight are important in preventing stone formation.
What Is the Prevention of Infection Stones?
Good Hygiene: Maintaining good hygiene is an essential aspect of preventing infection stones. It involves cleaning oneself properly after using the bathroom, washing the genital area with soap and water, and wearing clean and dry underwear. It's crucial to wipe from front to back to avoid any contamination.
Antibiotics: If an individual is experiencing a urinary tract infection, it is crucial to seek medical treatment with antibiotics to prevent the infection from spreading to the kidneys and ultimately resulting in the formation of stones.
Regular Urination: Holding in urine for too long can increase the risk of infection stones. Regular urination can help flush out bacteria and prevent them from accumulating in the urinary tract.
Diet: To avoid the development of calcium oxalate stones, it is recommended to refrain from consuming foods and beverages with high oxalate content, such as spinach, rhubarb, and tea. Additionally, maintaining a balanced diet that incorporates an adequate amount of fruits and vegetables can promote a healthy urinary tract.
Avoiding Bladder Irritants: To reduce the risk of urinary tract infections and infection stones, it is advisable to avoid consuming bladder irritants such as caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods, as they can potentially cause bladder irritation.
Medical Management: People who are prone to developing infection stones may benefit from long-term antibiotics or medications that help prevent the growth of bacteria in the urinary tract. It's important to consult a healthcare provider to determine whether these preventive measures are suitable for individual health needs.
Conclusion:
Infection stones are a particular kind of kidney stone that emerges due to urinary tract infections caused by specific bacteria. The symptoms of infection stones may resemble those of other types of kidney stones, but they may also include symptoms associated with the underlying UTI. Diagnosis of infection stones necessitates a combination of urine tests, blood tests, and imaging tests, while treatment comprises a combination of surgery to remove the stone and antibiotics. To avoid infection stones, it is essential to prevent UTIs by practicing good hygiene, staying hydrated, and seeking immediate treatment for any infections.
