Hillary Durstein MSN, APRN, NP-C, CUNP, FAUNA, presents “Urolithiasis – Prevalence, Pathophysiology, and Prevention.”
How to cite: Durstein, Hillary. “Urolithiasis – Prevalence, Pathophysiology, and Prevention.” March 28, 2025. Accessed Oct 2025. https://grandroundsinurology.com/urolithiasis-prevalence-pathophysiology-and-prevention/
Urolithiasis – Prevalence, Pathophysiology, and Prevention – Summary
Hillary Durstein, MSN, APRN, NP-C, CUNP, FAUNA, presents an overview of kidney stones, focusing on their prevalence, underlying pathophysiology, and prevention strategies. In this 14-minute presentation, Durstein begins by reviewing the pathophysiology of kidney stones, noting that most are calcium-based and radiopaque, while struvite, uric acid, cysteine, or protease-related stones are less common. Most are diagnosed by CT.
Utilizing graphics, X-rays, and lists, Durstein shares that kidney stones can be located in the renal pelvis or calyceal, ureter, or bladder. She notes that small stones less than 5mm may pass independently, while larger stones require surgical intervention; different surgical methods depend on stone location.
The presentation continues to discuss evaluation and prevention. A detailed medical and dietary history, serum chemistry, and urinalysis are necessary. Durstein reviews patients’ dietary recommendations and pharmacologic options, determined by stone type.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Hillary Durstein MSN, APRN, NP-C, CUNP, FAUNA, is a Nurse Practitioner with the rank of Major in the United States Army Reserve, currently serving in Las Vegas, Nevada. Durstein leads the Advanced Prostate Cancer Clinic for the US Army Reserve, and serves as a remote educator of Oncology Nursing for Bayer.
Durstein earned her MSN from the University of South Alabama in Mobile. She is a Fellow of the Academy of Urologic Nurses and Associates. Durstein is also a member of the Society of Urologic Nurses and Associates, American Urological Association, and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. Durstein co-authored a chapter in theManual of Men's Healthand is an author in the upcoming 2nd edition ofThe Nurse Practitioner.
