Descriptive Profile of Urolithiasis Cases in a Tertiary Hospital in Sabah

Abstract

Urolithiasis is a common urological problem in Malaysia. Stones can be formed by precipitation or crystallization of minerals and urinary constituents. It is a multifactorial, recurrent disease distributed worldwide with a trend of increasing incidence. This study aims to describe the characteristics of patients with urolithiasis in a tertiary centre in Sabah. Patients seen in the urology clinic or inpatient ward in the Department of Urology, Hospital Queen Elizabeth, Sabah, who had urolithiasis confirmed on plain CT KUB were reviewed. Demographic data regarding age, gender, race, address, and BMI were recorded. Details regarding fluid intake and family history of urolithiasis associated with medical conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and gout were collected during the interview with the patient. Routine urine and blood investigations for urolithiasis were performed, and results with CT scan findings were recorded in a data collection sheet. A total of 300 patients with urolithiasis were reviewed. The median age was 54 years, with similar gender distribution. BMI above normal was found in 69% of participants, and 55% had underlying hypertension. The highest incidence was seen in the Kadazan-Dusun population. Those who consume < 2 L/day of fluid also had a higher frequency of urolithiasis. 60.6% of stones were unilateral, whereas 43.7% were found to be renal. There were 39.7% of patients who had CKD stage 2. The mean Hounsfield unit of stones was 1,091. In conclusion, urolithiasis is a common problem worldwide, and it is apparent that its burden on the healthcare system is increasing. These findings will help better understand local clinical characteristics to prevent and reduce morbidity and mortality by urolithiasis.