Renal and ureteral calculi comprise the majority of genitourinary calcifications encountered clinically. Significant morbidity, however, may occur from less common urologic calculi. Although treatment of most stones remains uncomplicated, etiology and prevention prove elusive. Mandel hypothesized that most if not all extraosseous calcifications in the body arise from a nidus of carbonate apatite (1). If this is true, inhibition of the initial crystallization may help prevent formation of most genitourinary stones. Hopefully, future research and investigation will help us understand and eventually direct nonsurgical treatment of these calculi. This chapter discusses the etiology, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of stones found in the urethra, prostate, seminal vesicle, and bladder. The management and prevention of encrusted foreign bodies is also presented.
