TRENDS IN IMAGING FOR SUSPECTED URINARY STONES IN THE EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT

Abstract

Urolithiasis is a multi-factorial recurrent disease that presents a critical 1 health concern globally. It is the third most common urological disease affecting both males and females, with reported higher incidences in the Middle East, Scandinavian countries, the United States, Central Europe, Mediterranean countries, and the British 2,3 Isles. Epidemiologically, prevalence ranges from 1% to 20% worldwide (7-13% in North America, 5-9% in Europe, and 1-5% in Asia). In the UAE also, the incidence and prevalence of urolithiasis were documented to be rising due to its high temperature and semi-arid climate. The recurrence rate of urolithiasis is reported to be 6%–17% after 1 year, 21%–53% after 3–5 years, and the lifetime risk of 4 recurrence is estimated to be 60%–80%