PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

Which condition can present with flank pain and hematuria, and may induce nausea and vomiting?

1. Pyelonephritis

2. Nephrolithiasis

3. Glomerulonephritis

4. Acute tubular necrosis

The correct answer is: Nephrolithiasis

Nephrolithiasis, or the presence of kidney stones, is the condition that typically presents with flank pain, hematuria (blood in the urine), and can also induce nausea and vomiting. The pain associated with nephrolithiasis is often described as severe and can come in waves, radiating to the lower abdomen or groin as the stone moves through the ureter. This intense pain is a result of the obstruction and irritation of the urinary tract. Hematuria is commonly seen in patients with nephrolithiasis due to the stone's abrasive action on the lining of the urinary tract, causing bleeding. Nausea and vomiting can occur as a result of the body's response to pain, or due to the obstruction leading to increased hydrostatic pressure and distension of the urinary system, which can activate the vomiting center in the brain. While other conditions such as pyelonephritis, glomerulonephritis, and acute tubular necrosis can also cause flank pain and hematuria, they usually present with additional specific findings or symptoms that differentiate them from nephrolithiasis. For instance, pyelonephritis is often associated with fever and chills due to infection, glomerulonephritis may present with protein