“New information has become available on the clinical presentation, epidemiologic risk factors, evaluative approach, and outcome of various therapeutic strategies. In this report, we will review the epidemiology and mechanisms of kidney-stone formation and outline management aimed at preventing recurrences,” write Zachary Z.

Brener, MD, from the Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Medical Center in New York, NY, and colleagues. “Improved awareness and education in both the general population and among health-care providers about these modifiable risk factors has the potential to improve general health and decrease morbidity and mortality secondary to renal-stone disease.”

Nephrolithiasis is a significant source of urinary tract morbidity, with US prevalence increasing from 3.8% in the 1970s to 5.2% in the 1990s. In 2000, nephrolithiasis prompted nearly 2 million clinician-office visits and was responsible for annual costs estimated at $2 billion.

Read more: http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/737381?src=mpnews&spon=34