Tests

Evaluation for kidney stones may be performed in a variety of settings depending upon an individual's circumstances. For people without symptoms whose kidney stones were found incidentally, for example in an MRI being performed for another reason, their testing may be scheduled ahead of time to occur in a doctor's office. For others, the symptoms may lead them to seek immediate medical attention in the emergency department of a hospital or an urgent care center where their exam, testing, and diagnosis will occur. The circumstances under which testing occurs may dictate the tests performed, but for all evaluations, the goal is to determine the size, shape, and location of the kidney stone and assess the risk of infection.

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Diagnosing kidney stones usually involves one or more imaging procedures to visualize the urinary tract and kidney stone and is usually accompanied by simple blood and urine tests to evaluate the function of the kidneys and rule out other conditions that may be causing your symptoms. A CT scan is the best imaging technique for evaluating kidney stones, but some medical centers may use ultrasound or a specialized abdominal X-ray technique known as intravenous pyelography.

Each evaluation begins with the medical history and physical exam, during which the doctor will collect information on any other signs and symptoms you may be experiencing and assess the characteristics of the pain, if any. During the visit, be prepared to discuss your and your family's medical history of kidney stones; your symptoms, including when they first appeared, how long they last, and the circumstances in which the symptoms occur; and any questions you have about your condition. During the physical exam, your doctor may palpate your abdomen and flanks, examine your groin and genital region, take your pulse at different locations on your body, and listen to the sounds of your heart and lungs.

Once this information has been obtained, follow-up testing will be recommended and may include any of the following:

• Blood tests
• Abdominal X-ray (Intravenous Pyelography)
• Abdominal Ultrasound
• CT scan
• Urine test