Pathophysiology of reno-ureteral colic

Abstract

Introduction: Reno-ureteral colic presents with a complex of acute symptoms that usually indicate the presence of a stone in the collecting system, The aim of any treatment is pain relief, stone removal and preservation of kidney function. We focused our review on the pathophysiological aspects of reno-ureteral colic and, briefly, on its treatment.

Materials and methods: A complete overview of contemporary literature regarding reno-ureteral colic was performed by using MEDLINE and website on-line publications like EAU Guidelines.

Results: Clinical presentation of reno-ureteral colic, of mechanisms of ureteral peristalsis and pathophysiology of renal colic is described. An overview of the available medical treatments is presented.

Conclusions: An accurate comprehension of the pathophysiology of reno-ureteral colic allows the physician to tailor the best treatment for each patient.