Calculus (medicine)
Calculus (medicine)
A calculus (pronounced: /ˈkælkjʊləs/), in the field of medicine, is a hardened deposit that forms when minerals in the body clump together. Calculi can form in various parts of the body such as the kidneys, gallbladder, and bladder. They are also commonly known as stones.
Etymology
The term 'calculus' is derived from the Latin word 'calculus', which means 'small stone'. This term was used in ancient Rome for counting and calculations. In medicine, it refers to stones that form in the body.
Types of Calculus
There are several types of calculus in medicine, including:
- Kidney stones (Renal calculus): These are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys.
- Gallstones (Biliary calculus): These are hardened deposits in the gallbladder that can range in size from a grain of sand to a golf ball.
- Bladder stones (Vesical calculus): These are hard masses of minerals in your bladder.
- Salivary stones (Sialolithiasis): These are calcified structures or stones that form inside the salivary glands.
Symptoms
Symptoms of calculus depend on their location in the body. For example, kidney stones might cause severe pain in the back or side, blood in the urine, or frequent urination. Gallstones might cause pain in the upper right abdomen, back pain, nausea, or vomiting.
Treatment
Treatment for calculus also depends on their location and size. Small stones might pass on their own with hydration. Larger stones might require medication or surgical procedures like lithotripsy, ureteroscopy, or percutaneous nephrolithotomy.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Calculus (medicine)
- Wikipedia's article - Calculus (medicine)
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