Kidney Stone Test - Calculus (Stone) Analysis by Automated FTIR (Kidney (Renal) Calculus)

The Calculus Analysis by automated FTIR (Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy) is a diagnostic test that is used to identify the chemical composition of a kidney (renal) calculus or stone. The test measures the infrared spectrum of the stone, which allows the identification of the chemical composition of the stone viz. calcium oxalate & phosphate, magnesium ammonium phosphate (struvite), uric acid, cystine and other components

1. Identification of Kidney Calculi: Calculus analysis is essential in determining the type of kidney stone that is formed in the human body.
2. Treatment Planning: Knowing the type of stone can guide the healthcare provider in deciding on the best course of treatment.
3. Prevention of Kidney Stones: Understanding the composition of kidney stones can also help in preventing the formation of new stones. The healthcare provider can recommend lifestyle changes or medications to prevent the recurrence of kidney stones.

This test is recommended for individuals who experience symptoms of kidney stones, such as:

• Severe pain in the back, lower abdomen, or groin
• Nausea and vomiting
• Blood in the urine
• Frequent urge to urinate
• Painful urination
• Fever and chills

The test requires a small sample of the kidney stone, which is typically collected by the urologist or a trained medical professional during a routine medical examination.

No specific preparations are required to be done before the test.

If a Calculus (Stone) Analysis by automated FTIR (Kidney (Renal) calculus) test has been ordered, there are several other laboratory tests that may also be ordered to help diagnose and manage the condition:

1. Urinalysis: This test can detect abnormalities in the urine, such as the presence of blood, protein, or infection, which may indicate the presence of kidney stones.
2. Complete blood count (CBC): It can help detect infection or inflammation.
3. Electrolyte panel: It can help detect dehydration or imbalances that may contribute to the formation of kidney stones.
4. Serum creatinine: If the level is high, it may indicate that the kidney stone is causing damage to the kidney.
5. 24-hour urine collection: This test can help identify the type of kidney stone and determine the underlying cause.

The Kidney Stone Test - Calculus (Stone) Analysis by Automated FTIR is a diagnostic test that uses Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) to determine the chemical composition of a kidney stone by analyzing its infrared spectrum.

The Kidney Stone Analysis Test detects the chemical composition of the stone, identifying minerals such as calcium oxalate, calcium phosphate, uric acid, struvite, cystine, and other components.

The reports indicate the specific types and proportions of minerals present in the kidney stone, providing crucial information for determining the best treatment plan and preventive measures to avoid future stone formation.

The benefits include accurate identification of the stone's composition for targeted treatment, guidance for preventing future stones, improved symptom management, and enhanced patient care through detailed information about the stone's composition.

There are no significant risks associated with the test itself, as it involves analysing a small sample of the kidney stone collected during a routine medical examination without requiring invasive procedures.

The test specifically diagnoses the type and composition of kidney stones, which can be associated with conditions like nephrolithiasis (kidney stone disease), helping in managing related conditions.

Medications typically do not affect the results of the Kidney Stone Test, as the test analyses the chemical composition of the stone itself rather than the patient's metabolic or biochemical state.

Typically, fasting is not required before a Kidney Stone Test. However, its essential to follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider or diagnostic center.

The accuracy of the test results can be influenced by the quality of the stone sample and the expertise in interpreting the FTIR spectra, but modern automated systems and comprehensive libraries minimise these risks.

Kidney Stone Test results are usually available after 6 hours, although this may vary depending on the healthcare provider and the time/day when the sample was collected and processed.