Cystolithiasis is a medical condition characterized by the presence of bladder stones. The spelling of this word can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription as [sɪˌstoʊlɪˈθaɪəsɪs], where "cysto-" refers to the bladder, "-lithia-" to stones, and "-sis" denotes a condition or state. Each syllable is pronounced with emphasis, and the vowels are pronounced individually. The complex spelling of this word reflects its technical nature, and highlights the need for precision and accuracy in medical language.
Cystolithiasis is a medical condition characterized by the presence of stones or calcified deposits, known as bladder stones or vesical calculi, within the urinary bladder. These stones are formed as a result of the accumulation and hardening of mineral salts and other substances present in the urine.
The condition typically arises due to disturbances in the urinary system, such as urinary tract infections, inadequate fluid intake, or urinary stasis (a condition where urine does not flow freely). In some cases, underlying medical conditions like enlarged prostate, urinary tract obstruction, or neurogenic bladder can contribute to the development of cystolithiasis.
Symptoms of cystolithiasis may include lower abdominal pain, frequent urination, a burning sensation during urination, blood in the urine (hematuria), and difficulty in controlling urination. These symptoms can vary depending on the size and number of stones present, as well as the degree of inflammation or infection in the bladder.
Diagnosis of cystolithiasis involves various imaging techniques such as ultrasound or X-ray, which can help visualize the presence and location of bladder stones. Treatment typically involves the removal of stones from the bladder through procedures like cystolitholapaxy (breaking the stones using ultrasonic waves), endoscopic surgery, or in severe cases, open surgery.
Preventive measures to reduce the risk of cystolithiasis include maintaining good urinary hygiene, drinking an adequate amount of fluids, treating urinary tract infections promptly, and managing underlying conditions that contribute to stone formation.
Stone in the bladder; the presence of a vesical calculus.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "cystolithiasis" is derived from two Greek roots: "cysto-" and "lithiasis".
In Greek, "cysto-" (κύστις) means "bladder" or "bag", which represents the bladder or a sac-like structure in this context. It is commonly used as a prefix in medical terminology related to the bladder, such as "cystoscopy" (examination of the bladder) or "cystitis" (inflammation of the bladder).
"Lithiasis" (λιθίασις), also from Greek, means "formation of stones". It comes from the word "lithos" (λίθος), which means "stone".