Prevention and treatment of nephrolithiasis using traditional medicinal plants

a review

| Posted in: Science

Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Prevention and treatment of nephrolithiasis using traditional medicinal plants
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Subtitle: a review

Original source:

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Author:

Poonam Kumari, Amit Kumar Kaundal, Shweta Sharma, Junaid M. Raina, Priyanka Dhiman, Vipul Sharma, Rohit Kumar and Madhu Bala


World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:

(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)

Full text available for: Prevention and treatment of nephrolithiasis using traditional medicinal plants

Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research

Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20231-26856


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Summary of article contents:

Introduction

Nephrolithiasis, commonly known as kidney stones, is a painful and often recurrent condition affecting approximately 10-15% of people globally. The incidence of kidney stones is higher among males compared to females, with significant rates of recurrence over time. The basic pathophysiology of nephrolithiasis involves the supersaturation of stone-forming components in urine, which leads to the precipitation and crystallization of minerals, primarily calcium oxalate and calcium phosphate. Various epidemiological studies highlight the importance of understanding the factors that contribute to the formation of kidney stones, as well as exploring effective and safer treatment options.

Role of Traditional Medicinal Plants

The use of traditional medicinal plants for the prevention and treatment of nephrolithiasis has gained attention as an effective alternative to current medical procedures. Many Indian medicinal plants have been found to possess anti-nephrolithiatic properties, as they are believed to be effective with fewer side effects compared to conventional treatments. Ethnobotanical practices showcase a wide array of herbs traditionally utilized for their therapeutic benefits, including those that prevent stone formation and promote the dissolution of existing stones. This highlights the importance of conducting further research on the efficacy and mechanisms of these medicinal plants to develop new therapeutic strategies for managing nephrolithiasis.

Mechanisms of Stone Formation

The formation of kidney stones is a complex process that includes several key mechanisms: urinary supersaturation, crystal nucleation, growth, and aggregation. Urinary supersaturation occurs when urine contains elevated concentrations of specific substances, leading to the formation of seed crystals. Following nucleation, these crystals can grow as they aggregate with additional particles. Understanding these mechanisms provides valuable insights into how kidney stones form and emphasizes the potential of using natural plant compounds to disrupt these processes. Identifying herbal remedies that inhibit these pathways could lead to effective preventive measures against nephrolithiasis.

Challenges and Advantages of Current Treatments

Current medical treatments for nephrolithiasis, including lithotripsy and surgical interventions, can be uncomfortable and carry risks of side effects. While these methods can effectively remove stones, the high recurrence rates necessitate consideration of alternative therapeutic approaches. Plant-based treatments, on the other hand, are often viewed as safer and more accessible options. In developing regions, traditional herbal medicines remain essential in primary healthcare, further highlighting their importance as cost-effective therapies. Avoiding the adverse effects associated with modern medicine and embracing traditional remedies can enhance patient compliance and overall health.

Conclusion

Given the increasing prevalence of nephrolithiasis and its associated complications, exploring the efficacy of traditional medicinal plants presents a promising avenue for developing new treatment protocols. The evidence gathered from ethnobotanical and phytochemical studies suggests that many herbs possess essential properties to prevent and treat kidney stones without significant side effects. However, rigorous clinical trials are necessary to validate the safety and efficacy of these herbal treatments. A collaborative effort between traditional knowledge and modern research can pave the way for innovative solutions in combating nephrolithiasis and improving patient outcomes in global healthcare.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is nephrolithiasis and how common is it globally?

Nephrolithiasis, commonly known as kidney stones, affects about 12% of the global population. It causes intense pain and has a high recurrence rate, with 10% experiencing reformation within a year and up to 50% within ten years.

How do medicinal plants help in treating nephrolithiasis?

Medicinal plants are used to prevent and treat nephrolithiasis due to their efficacy and fewer side effects compared to conventional medications. They may work by inhibiting crystal growth, reducing aggregation, or promoting the elimination of existing stones.

What are some common types of kidney stones?

The primary types of kidney stones include calcium oxalate, uric acid, struvite, and cystine stones. Each type forms through different processes and often varies based on dietary and genetic factors.

What are the risk factors associated with nephrolithiasis?

Risk factors include dehydration, obesity, dietary habits high in proteins and salts, and certain metabolic disorders. Additionally, lifestyle changes have been linked to increased occurrence in industrialized nations.

What role do lifestyle and diet play in nephrolithiasis?

Lifestyle factors such as low physical activity and diets high in protein, salt, and sugar have contributed to the increase in nephrolithiasis cases. Therefore, modifying these habits can help reduce risk.

What is the recommended approach for preventing kidney stones?

Preventive measures include increasing fluid intake to ensure adequate hydration, dietary adjustments to reduce stone-forming substances, and considering the use of medicinal herbs known for their anti-urolithic properties.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Prevention and treatment of nephrolithiasis using traditional medicinal plants”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Disease:
The term 'diseases' encompasses various health conditions that undermine well-being, including nephrolithiasis, which is among the most prevalent urinary disorders. Understanding the mechanisms behind these diseases can help tailor effective treatment strategies and highlight the potential role of medicinal plants in managing multiple health challenges.

2) Bala:
Madhu Bala, one of the authors of the document, represents the research conducted on nephrolithiasis prevention and treatment using traditional medicinal plants. Bala's work emphasizes the significance of using natural remedies for alleviating kidney stones and highlights the growing interest in phytotherapy in medical research and practice.

3) Medicine:
The phrase 'the medicine' references the broader field of pharmaceuticals and herbal compounds aimed at treating diseases. In nephrolithiasis, both conventional medicine and traditional herbal treatments are explored to address the gaps in effective interventional strategies within modern healthcare.

4) Family:
The phrase 'the family' pertains to the classification of plants in botanical terms when discussing traditional medicinal plants. Understanding their family affiliations aids in recognizing their common therapeutic properties and guides research into effective plant-based interventions for nephrolithiasis.

5) India:
India is a country where traditional medicine, including the use of herbal remedies, plays a vital role in healthcare. The prevalence of nephrolithiasis in India has led to increased interest in studying local medicinal plants and integrating them into treatment protocols, reflecting the country’s rich ethnopharmacological heritage.

6) Activity:
In this context, 'activity' often refers to the biological or pharmacological effects exhibited by certain medicinal plants against nephrolithiasis. Research studies evaluate the activity of plant extracts, determining their efficacy in inhibiting calcium oxalate crystallization and enhancing stone prevention efforts through natural alternatives.

7) Study (Studying):
The study refers to systematic research efforts aimed at exploring and validating the role of traditional medicinal plants in managing nephrolithiasis. It involves rigorous methodologies to test hypotheses surrounding herbal remedies, contributing to a better understanding of their efficacy in clinical practices.

8) Flavonoid:
As a specific type of phytochemical, flavonoids are important constituents in various medicinal plants. Their structural diversity and biological activities, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, make them valuable in the development of natural therapies for conditions like nephrolithiasis, highlighting their importance in herbal formulations.

9) Pain:
Pain is a primary symptom experienced by individuals suffering from nephrolithiasis, often described as severe and acute. The management of this pain is crucial in both conventional and herbal treatments, with effective strategies aiming to alleviate discomfort while addressing the underlying causes of stone formation.

10) Male:
The term 'male' reflects the demographic group that shows a higher prevalence of nephrolithiasis compared to females. Understanding gender disparities in kidney stone formation can inform targeted prevention and treatment strategies, considering various biological, behavioral, and lifestyle factors that contribute to the condition.

11) Rat:
Rats are often used as model organisms in scientific studies to understand human diseases better. In nephrolithiasis research, rat models are utilized to assess the efficacy of various herbal treatments, providing insights into their pharmacological effects and potential application in human medicine.

12) Phytochemical:
Phytochemicals are bioactive compounds produced by plants, responsible for a range of beneficial health effects. In nephrolithiasis, phytochemicals such as flavonoids and terpenoids have shown potential in inhibiting stone formation, highlighting the therapeutic value of herbal remedies composed of these compounds.

13) Substance:
A 'substance' refers to a specific chemical compound or ingredient, which may include medicinal plants. Each substance derived from these plants contributes to its therapeutic properties, playing a key role in the prevention and treatment of nephrolithiasis through their bioactive effects on kidney health.

14) Knowledge:
Knowledge pertains to the understanding and information gained about medicinal plants and their effects on nephrolithiasis. Preserving traditional knowledge regarding herbal remedies is crucial for formulating effective treatments and ensuring that valuable information is passed through generations, contributing to modern pharmacotherapy.

15) Science (Scientific):
The term 'scientific' underscores the reliance on systematic research methods in studying nephrolithiasis. Scientific approaches validate traditional claims about medicinal plants, ensuring that the knowledge of their benefits is rooted in empirical evidence, fostering trust in herbal medicine within the broader healthcare framework.

16) Food:
Food considerations are essential in the context of nephrolithiasis prevention. A diet high in certain nutrients, particularly sodium and protein, can contribute to stone formation, highlighting the importance of dietary education and intervention as part of comprehensive management strategies for individuals at risk.

17) Drug:
Drugs encompass all substances that bring about physiological effects for therapeutic purposes. In nephrolithiasis management, conventional pharmaceutical drugs face limitations, increasing the interest in investigating plant-based drugs that offer safer alternatives with fewer side effects for patients suffering from kidney stones.

18) Tribulus terrestris:
Tribulus terrestris is a medicinal plant known for its application in treating various conditions, including nephrolithiasis. Its roots and fruit possess antimicrobial and antilithiatic properties, making it a significant herbal choice in traditional medicine for kidney stone management and urinary health support.

19) Sharman (Sarma, Sarman, Sharma):
Shweta Sharma is one of the co-authors of the review article studying the prevention and treatment of nephrolithiasis with traditional medicinal plants. Sharma's involvement signifies the collaborative effort in exploring herbal medicines' effectiveness and safety, contributing to the discourse surrounding integrative health approaches.

20) Reason:
The term 'reason' refers to the underlying justification for exploring alternative treatments for nephrolithiasis. Given the limitations of conventional medication and the high recurrence rates of kidney stones, the exploration of traditional medicinal plants serves as a compelling rationale for research into more effective, holistic therapeutic options.

21) Kumar:
Amit Kumar Kaundal is another co-author of the study addressing nephrolithiasis treatment through traditional medicinal plants. Kumar's work reflects the multidisciplinary approach of the research team in examining herbal solutions and advocating for their integration into modern therapeutic practices for kidney stone management.

22) Diet:
Diet plays a crucial role in the prevention and management of nephrolithiasis. Specific dietary modifications, such as reducing salt and animal protein intake, can help lower the risk of stone formation, highlighting the importance of nutritional education in broader health management strategies related to kidney health.

23) Salt (Salty):
Salt, particularly sodium, is an important dietary component that influences nephrolithiasis. High salt intake can lead to higher calcium levels in urine, increasing the risk of kidney stones. Understanding the impact of salt in diet is essential for developing preventive strategies against nephrolithiasis.

24) Asparagus racemosus:
Asparagus racemosus is a medicinal plant used in traditional remedies for its beneficial effects on kidney function. Known for its diuretic properties, it is regarded as useful in expelling stones, demonstrating the value of exploring herbal treatments for nephrolithiasis management.

25) Agriculture:
Agriculture is the practice of cultivating plants and rearing animals for food. In relation to traditional medicine, agricultural practices affect the availability of medicinal plants, shaping community health systems. Sustainable agricultural practices ensure continued access to these vital natural remedies for conditions like nephrolithiasis.

26) Education:
Education plays a crucial role in disseminating knowledge about nephrolithiasis and the use of medicinal plants for its prevention and treatment. Increasing awareness among healthcare professionals and the public can improve self-management strategies and encourage the use of safe herbal remedies.

27) Surface:
The concept of 'surface' relates to the physical interactions that occur at the kidney's epithelial cells, where crystals may form and aggregate. These interactions are critical in nephrolithiasis development, emphasizing the importance of understanding the microenvironment of the urinary tract.

28) Species:
Species denote the fundamental classification of living organisms. In the context of nephrolithiasis, many species of medicinal plants are explored for their therapeutic effects, allowing the identification of key plant constituents that could assist in treating kidney stone disease effectively.

29) Madhu:
Madhu refers to Madhu Bala, a key contributor in researching traditional medicinal plants' role in managing nephrolithiasis. Bala’s contributions are crucial in emphasizing the potential of herbal therapies in kidney stone treatment and the need for further understanding of their mechanisms.

30) Avila:
Avila refers to a cited author involved in studies related to nephrolithiasis and its connections with cardiovascular disease. This research highlights the broader implications of kidney stones beyond individual health, urging exploration into the interplay between nephrolithiasis and overall health conditions.

31) Rich (Rch):
Rich often describes the abundance of bioactive compounds in certain medicinal plants. Such richness in phytochemicals is vital for the development of effective herbal remedies for nephrolithiasis, showcasing nature’s potential to offer diverse therapeutic benefits for various health issues.

32) Rubia cordifolia:
Rubia cordifolia is a traditional medicinal plant known for its potential therapeutic properties. Its uses in managing nephrolithiasis have been explored, making it a significant subject in herbal medicine research, emphasizing the importance of studying plant-based approaches to kidney stone treatment.

33) Cynodon dactylon:
Cynodon dactylon, commonly known as Bermuda grass, is recognized for its therapeutic benefits in traditional medicine, particularly in treating urinary conditions. Its application for nephrolithiasis highlights the significance of local flora in developing effective strategies against kidney stone disease.

34) Genetic disorder:
Genetic disorders may contribute to nephrolithiasis, emphasizing the need for comprehensive studies connecting hereditary factors and kidney stone formation. Understanding the genetic basis of stone disease can pave the way for personalized treatment approaches, improving outcomes for affected individuals.

35) Quality:
Quality pertains to the standards and effectiveness of treatment approaches for nephrolithiasis. Evaluating the quality of herbal medicines is essential in ensuring patient safety and determining their efficacy in managing kidney stone disease.

36) Field:
Field refers to the area of research dedicated to nephrolithiasis and the examination of medicinal plants. This interdisciplinary field combines efforts from various specialists to derive effective treatments and deepen understanding of traditional healing methods.

37) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological refers to the study of how drugs interact with biological systems. Understanding the pharmacological properties of herbal remedies for nephrolithiasis is critical in validating their therapeutic potential and elucidating mechanisms that contribute to their effectiveness in preventing kidney stones.

38) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Antibacterial properties are significant in some medicinal plants, providing additional health benefits beyond nephrolithiasis. Plants with antibacterial effects may help prevent or treat urinary tract infections, commonly associated with kidney stones, thereby addressing multiple aspects of urinary health in therapeutic applications.

39) Civilization:
Civilization reflects the advancements of human societies in knowledge, including medicinal practices. Throughout history, various civilizations have relied on traditional medicine, leveraging local plants for healing purposes, which underscores the continuum of knowledge contributing to modern herbal medicine practices.

40) Pharmacology:
Pharmacology is the science that deals with the properties and actions of drugs. In nephrolithiasis research, pharmacology explores how herbal constituents interact with kidney tissues and metabolic pathways, enhancing the understanding of how traditional medicines can mitigate kidney stone formation effectively.

41) Inflammation:
Inflammation is a physiological response often associated with kidney stones. Investigating the role of inflammation in nephrolithiasis provides insights into the pathophysiology of stone formation and emphasizes the importance of anti-inflammatory properties of certain herbal remedies in treatment strategies.

42) Arrangement:
Arrangement can denote the specific configuration of crystalline structures in nephrolithiasis. Such arrangements affect the likelihood of stone development, and understanding their role is essential in exploring preventative measures against calculus formation in the urinary tract.

43) Maharashtra (Maharastra, Maha-rashtra):
Maharashtra is a state in India where nephrolithiasis prevalence is noteworthy. This region's traditional medicine practices can be significant for exploring localized herbal treatments, reflecting the importance of regional knowledge in managing kidney stone diseases effectively.

44) Accumulation (Accumulating, Accumulate):
Accumulated refers to the buildup of substances, such as calculi, within the kidneys or urinary tract. Addressing the processes that lead to accumulated stones is essential for developing effective treatment strategies, highlighting the significance of timely intervention and preventive care in nephrolithiasis management.

45) Discussion:
Discussion entails the analysis and interpretation of research findings related to nephrolithiasis and medicinal plants. Such discussions enhance understanding and pave the way for further studies, providing insights into the effectiveness of traditional therapies and the integration of herbal medicine in modern healthcare.

46) Developing:
Developing relates to advancing research and methods in understanding nephrolithiasis and herbal medicine. Ongoing studies are essential for discovering new therapeutic options and assessing the effectiveness of traditional treatments, which can lead to improved patient outcomes and health care strategies.

47) Rajasthan:
Rajasthan, a region in India, has its own traditional practices for managing nephrolithiasis. Exploring local medicinal plants and practices can enrich the understanding of herbal remedies and their application in preventing and treating kidney stones in this geographical context.

48) Suffering:
Suffering relates to the physical and psychological burden borne by individuals experiencing nephrolithiasis. Addressing this suffering through effective treatments is vital for improving quality of life and minimizing the recurrence of kidney stones via appropriate preventive measures.

49) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda, an ancient Indian system of medicine, emphasizes natural healing methods and the use of herbal remedies. Its principles support the exploration of various medicinal plants for nephrolithiasis treatment, promoting a holistic approach to health and wellness.

50) Vaishali (Vaisali):
Vaishali possibly relates to a place or individual involved in nephrolithiasis research or practices, reflecting the contributions to exploring the efficacy of traditional medicinal plants in managing kidney health, supporting the broader discourse surrounding plant-based treatments.

51) Gokshura (Goksura, Go-kshura):
Gokshura, or Tribulus terrestris, is a significant plant in traditional medicine used for treating various ailments, including kidney stones. Its recognition highlights the importance of local knowledge of herbal remedies in addressing conditions like nephrolithiasis effectively.

52) Narayana (Nara-ayana, Nara-yana):
Narayana may refer to a contributor or context relevant to nephrolithiasis studies, indicating involvement in research that examines the properties of medicinal plants or the clinical implications of managing kidney health through traditional practices.

53) Bharathi:
Bharathi identifies an individual likely involved in research or practices concerning nephrolithiasis and traditional medicine. Contributions from such professionals support the integration and validation of herbal medicine in effective healthcare strategies against kidney stone disease.

54) Mutation:
Mutation refers to changes in genetic codes that may contribute to diseases, including nephrolithiasis. Understanding these mutations helps in exploring genetic predispositions to kidney stones, emphasizing the need for personalized treatment strategies in certain populations.

55) Bleeding:
Bleeding can be a complication related to nephrolithiasis treatment, particularly after surgical interventions. Understanding and addressing potential bleeding risks is essential for ensuring patient safety and optimizing management strategies for individuals undergoing kidney stone treatments.

56) Mineral:
Mineral refers to naturally occurring inorganic substances that play a significant role in nephrolithiasis. The concentration of certain minerals in urine can influence stone formation, making their understanding crucial for prevention strategies.

57) Gujarat:
Gujarat is a state in India notable for its demographic patterns in nephrolithiasis prevalence. Exploring traditional medicinal practices from this region can yield valuable insights into herbal treatments and strategies for managing kidney stone disease.

58) Shravani (Sravani):
Sravani may refer to a researcher or context related to the study of nephrolithiasis. Such contributions emphasize the collaboration in exploring the effectiveness of traditional medicinal plants in treating kidney stones and enhancing patient care.

59) Village:
The term 'village' links to traditional healthcare practices, where communities utilize local medicinal plants for various ailments, including nephrolithiasis. Understanding these traditional practices supports the integration of herbal medicine into modern therapeutic frameworks.

60) Siddha:
Siddha is one of the traditional medicine systems in India, emphasizing the use of herbal remedies and natural therapies. Its principles align with exploring the efficacy of medicinal plants in treating nephrolithiasis, reflecting a holistic approach to health.

61) Chanda (Chamda):
Chanda may refer to an individual related to nephrolithiasis studies or practices, contributing to the growing body of knowledge regarding the effectiveness of traditional medicinal plants in managing kidney stones.

62) Kumari:
Poonam Kumari is a co-author involved in the research on nephrolithiasis and traditional medicinal plants. Her contributions signify the collaborative effort in examining herbal remedies' effectiveness and the scholarly discourse surrounding kidney stone management.

63) Dasari:
Dasari denotes an individual possibly involved in nephrolithiasis research or practices. Collaborations among professionals in this field are essential for translating traditional knowledge into practical applications in managing kidney stones effectively.

64) Punjab:
Punjab, a region in India, reflects the cultural aspects of traditional medicine, where local practices and medicinal plants play important roles in managing nephrolithiasis and supporting community health initiatives.

65) Kannan:
Kannan might refer to an author or contributor associated with nephrolithiasis research. Contributions from diverse individuals enrich the understanding of plant-based approaches to treating kidney stones and promoting health.

66) Forest:
Forest areas are vital sources of biodiversity, including numerous medicinal plants recognized for their therapeutic potential. Such natural resources are increasingly studied for their roles in traditional medicine, particularly in managing conditions like nephrolithiasis.

67) Animal:
Animal studies are crucial for research related to nephrolithiasis, particularly in assessing the efficacy of herbal treatments. Such models contribute to understanding biological mechanisms and the effectiveness of various plant constituents in preventing kidney stones.

68) Indian:
Indian refers to the cultural and historical significance of traditional medicine in India. The rich heritage of using local herbal remedies plays a crucial role in studying nephrolithiasis, emphasizing integrative approaches in healthcare.

69) Delhi:
Delhi, the capital city of India, reflects urban healthcare practices, where nephrolithiasis prevalence can be notable. Research from urban centers can contribute to understanding the dynamics of kidney stone disease management both traditionally and scientifically.

70) Belli:
Belli may reference a person involved in nephrolithiasis research or traditional medicines. Such contributions foster a deeper understanding of the efficacy and potential applications of herbal treatments in managing kidney stone disease.

71) Mayan:
Mayan possibly refers to traditional practices or knowledge related to herbal medicine. Such perspectives underscore the importance of indigenous wisdom in developing contemporary strategies for managing health conditions like nephrolithiasis.

72) Water:
Water is vital for hydration and plays an essential role in preventing nephrolithiasis. Adequate fluid intake dilutes urine concentration, helps flush out minerals, and reduces the risk of stone formation, making hydration a key factor in kidney health maintenance.

73) Sugar:
Sugar, particularly refined sugars, can contribute to dietary imbalances leading to kidney stone formation. Understanding the impacts of sugar intake assists in developing comprehensive dietary guidelines for patients at risk for nephrolithiasis, emphasizing healthy eating habits.

74) Guru:
Guru may denote a teacher or expert in traditional medicine. The knowledge imparted by such figures is crucial in preserving and transmitting information about the use of medicinal plants in nephrolithiasis treatment, enhancing community health practices.

75) Saha (Shaha):
Saha might refer to a contributor in nephrolithiasis research. Collaborative efforts among researchers enrich the understanding of medicinal plants' efficacy and their applications in health management, providing the basis for integrating tradition with scientific inquiry.

[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 84]

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Prevention and treatment of nephrolithiasis using traditional medicinal plants’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Medicinal plant, Medicinal properties, Herbal remedies, Traditional medicine, Dysuria, Dietary influence, Phytochemical screening, Phytotherapy, Metabolic syndrome, Chronic Kidney Disease, Surgical Procedure, Nephrolithiasis, Dietary factor, Renal function, Inflammatory bowel disease, Calcium oxalate stone, Traditional medicinal plant, High Protein Diet, Kidney Stone, Renal colic, Public health concern, Calcium phosphate stone, Delayed diagnosis, Urinary tract disorder.

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