Alternate Names : Stones – bladder, Urinary tract stones, Bladder calculi
Definition
Bladder stones are hard buildups of minerals that form in the urinary bladder.
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Bladder stones are usually the result of another urologic problem, such as:
- Bladder diverticulum
- Enlarged prostate
- Neurogenic bladder
- Urinary tract infection
Approximately 95% of all bladder stones occur in men. Bladder stones are much less common than kidney stones.
Bladder stones may occur when urine in the bladder is concentrated and materials crystallize. Symptoms occur when the stone irritates the lining of the bladder or obstructs the flow of urine from the bladder.
Pictures & Images
Female urinary tract
The female and male urinary tracts are relatively the same except for the length of the urethra.
Male urinary tract
The male and female urinary tracts are relatively the same except for the length of the urethra.
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Bladder stones : Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
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Bladder stones : Symptoms & Signs, Diagnosis & Tests
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Bladder stones : Treatment
Review Date : 3/22/2010
Reviewed By : Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine; Scott Miller, MD, Urologist in private practice in Atlanta, Georgia. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
