title: Stone disease in pregnancy: imaging-guided therapy.
abstract: Renal colic is the most frequent nonobstetric cause for abdominal pain and subsequent hospitalization during pregnancy. The physio-anatomical changes in the urinary tract and the presence of the fetus may complicate the clinical presentation and management of nephrolithiasis. Ultrasound (US) is the primary radiological investigation of choice. Magnetic resonance urography (MRU) and low-dose computed tomography (CT) have to be considered as a second- and third-line test, respectively. If a study that uses ionizing radiation has to be performed, the radiation dose to the fetus should be as low as possible. The initial management of symptomatic ureteric stones is conservative during pregnancy. Intervention will be necessary in patients who do not respond to conservative measures. Therefore, it is crucial to obtain a prompt and accurate diagnosis to optimize the management of these patients. Teaching Points • In pregnancy, renal colic is the most frequent nonobstetric cause for abdominal pain and hospitalization. • Magnetic resonance urography should be considered when ultrasound is nondiagnostic. • Low-dose CT should be considered as a last-line test during pregnancy.
authors.affiliation: Department Radiology, Università di Roma Sapienza, Viale del Policlinico 155, Rome, 00161, Italy, g.masselli@policlinicoumberto1.it.
authors.forename: Gabriele
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Masselli
authors.forename: Martina
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Derme
authors.forename: Maria Giulia
authors.initials: MG
authors.lastname: Bernieri
authors.forename: Elisabetta
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Polettini
authors.forename: Emanuele
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Casciani
authors.forename: Riccardo
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Monti
authors.forename: Francesca
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Laghi
authors.forename: Marialuisa
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Framarino-Dei-Malatesta
authors.forename: Marianna
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Guida
authors.forename: Roberto
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Brunelli
authors.forename: Gianfranco
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Gualdi