Kidney stone CT

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Amandeep Singh M.D.[2]

Abdominal and pelvic CT scan is helpful in the diagnosis of nephrolithiasis. Findings on CT scan diagnostic of nephrolithiasis include radiopacity showing the location, density and composition of stones calcium oxalate +/- calcium phosphate: 400-600 HU, struvite (triple phosphate): usually opaque but variable, pure calcium phosphate 400-600 HU, uric acid: 100-200 HU and cystine: opaque.

• Abdominal and pelvic CT scan may be helpful in the diagnosis of nephrolithiasis. Findings on CT scan diagnostic of nephrolithiasis include:
  • Radiopacity showing the location, density and composition of stones:
    • Calcium oxalate +/- calcium phosphate: 400-600 HU
    • Struvite (triple phosphate): usually opaque but variable
    • Pure calcium phosphate: 400-600 HU
    • Uric acid: 100-200 HU
    • Cystine: opaque

Patient #1: CT Image Demonstrates a Jackstone Calculus

Patient #2: CT Images Demonstrates Bilateral Staghorn Calculi

Patient #3: CT Images Demonstrates Left-sided Staghorn Calculi

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