NEPHROCALCINOSIS Meaning and
Definition
-
Nephrocalcinosis is a medical condition characterized by the deposition of calcium salts or crystals in the kidneys' tissues, specifically within the renal tubules. It is a type of nephrolithiasis, which refers to the formation of kidney stones. Nephrocalcinosis can affect one or both kidneys and can lead to impaired kidney function if left untreated.
The condition occurs when there is an excessive amount of calcium in the urine, leading to the development of calcifications within the renal tubules. These calcium deposits can obstruct the normal flow of urine, causing inflammation and damage to the renal tissue. Nephrocalcinosis can result from various underlying factors, including metabolic disorders, genetic abnormalities, certain medications, urinary tract infections, and hyperoxaluria (an excess of oxalate in the urine).
Symptoms of nephrocalcinosis may not be apparent until the condition progresses significantly. However, signs can include blood in the urine, frequent urination, abdominal or back pain, urinary tract infections, and diminished urine output. In severe cases, nephrocalcinosis can lead to chronic kidney disease and renal failure.
Diagnosis of nephrocalcinosis is often made using imaging tests such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) scan, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Treatment aims to address the underlying cause, reduce the calcium deposits, and alleviate symptoms. Depending on the severity of the condition, treatment options may include dietary modifications, medication to dissolve kidney stones, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) to break up larger stones, or in severe cases, surgical intervention.
Regular monitoring and management of nephrocalcinosis are crucial to prevent complications and preserve kidney function. Individuals with this condition are advised to consult with a
Common Misspellings for NEPHROCALCINOSIS
- bephrocalcinosis
- mephrocalcinosis
- jephrocalcinosis
- hephrocalcinosis
- nwphrocalcinosis
- nsphrocalcinosis
- ndphrocalcinosis
- nrphrocalcinosis
- n4phrocalcinosis
- n3phrocalcinosis
- neohrocalcinosis
- nelhrocalcinosis
- ne-hrocalcinosis
- ne0hrocalcinosis
- nepgrocalcinosis
- nepbrocalcinosis
- nepnrocalcinosis
- nepjrocalcinosis
- nepurocalcinosis
Etymology of NEPHROCALCINOSIS
The word "nephrocalcinosis" is derived from Greek and Latin roots.
The first part, "nephro", comes from the Greek word "nephros", which means kidney. This root is commonly used in medical terms relating to the kidneys.
The second part, "calcinosis", is derived from the Latin word "calx", which means lime or limestone, and the suffix "-osis", which generally denotes a condition or disease.
Therefore, the term "nephrocalcinosis" combines the Greek and Latin roots to describe a condition where there is an abnormal accumulation of calcium in the kidneys.
Similar spelling words for NEPHROCALCINOSIS
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
