Urolithiasis is the process of stone formation in the kidneys, bladder and/or urinary tract.1 1,200 to 1,400 people in 100,000 will develop a urinary stone every year. Urinary stones form when there is a decrease in urine volume or an excess of stone-forming substances. The use of diagnostic imaging plays a vital role in the processes of diagnosing and treating a urinary tract stone. This article will discuss the signs, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of urolithiasis. The urinary tract consists of two kidneys, ureters, urethra and bladder. The urinary system functions to remove waste from the body, maintain water homeostasis, blood pressure, and regulate the body's pH levels. The kidneys regulate several important internal conditions by excreting substances into the body. Once produced by the kidneys, urine is then transported to the bladder via the ureters. The bladder then holds the urine until the body is ready to be excreted through the urethra. Stone-forming substances are calcium oxalate, calcium phosphate, uric acid, and the amino acid cystine. Calcium oxalate stones often occur in patients with excessive amounts of calcium or oxalates. which are not excreted by the body. Calcium phosphate stones are usually linked to hyperparathyroidism. Uric acid stones often occur in patients with a history of gout, a high-protein diet, and minimal hydration. Amino acid cystine stones occur in patients with an inherited disease that causes excessive excretion of amino acids through the kidneys. Stones form in the urinary tract when the urine contains more stone-forming substances than there is fluid in the urine that would otherwise dilute those substances. Without a fixed solution...... middle of paper ...... treat and prevent future stone formation. About 1,200 to 1,400 people in 100,000 will develop a urinary stone each year.6 Stones may have no defined cause, but several factors that increase the chances of a stone forming. Dehydration and diets high in protein, sugar, or salt can increase the risk of stone formation. A patient will often feel sharp, painful cramps in the back and sides of the stone area located in the abdomen. Blood and urine tests and imaging tests will help diagnose stones in the urinary tract. Treatment for urinary stones will depend on the size of the stone and its cause. Once a stone has formed in the urinary tract, a patient has a 50% chance of another stone forming within 5 years if preventive measures are not taken.6 Prevention of urolithiasis relies on a combination of lifestyle changes and medications..