Renal & Urinary Conditions

The renal and urinary system is responsible for filtering waste products from the blood and producing urine. The kidneys are the primary organs of this system, and they play a vital role in maintaining overall health. 

When problems arise in the urinary system, it can manifest as:

• Pain in the lower back or abdomen
• Blood in the urine
• Difficulty urinating or frequent urination
• Pain or burning during urination

At Tellica Imaging, we utilize CT scans and MRIs to provide your healthcare providers with clear visualizations of the kidneys, ureters, and bladder to support your healthcare needs. 

The renal system, also known as the urinary system or the urinary tract, is a group of organs responsible for filtering waste products from the blood, regulating fluid and electrolyte balance, and producing and excreting urine.

The primary organs of the renal system include:

• Kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located on either side of the spine, just below the ribcage. Their main function is to filter blood to remove waste products and excess substances, such as salts and water, forming urine.
• Ureters are two thin, muscular tubes that connect the kidneys to the bladder. They carry urine from the kidneys down to the bladder for storage.
• The bladder is a hollow, muscular organ that stores urine until it is ready to be excreted. When the bladder is full, nerve signals alert the brain, leading to the sensation of needing to urinate. 
• The urethra is a tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body during urination. In men, the urethra is longer and passes through the penis, also serving the function of transporting semen during ejaculation. In women, the urethra is shorter and located above the vaginal opening.

The renal system is vital for maintaining the stable internal environment necessary for the body’s proper functioning. When problems arise in the urinary system, they can manifest as various conditions.

Kidney stones are hard deposits of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys. These stones can vary in size, from tiny grains to larger stones that can cause significant discomfort as they move through the urinary tract. 

Kidney stones can cause intense pain, typically in the lower back or abdomen, and may also lead to blood in the urine, nausea, vomiting, and difficulty urinating.

If not treated promptly, kidney stones can lead to complications such as urinary tract infections, kidney damage, or even a complete blockage of the urinary tract, which is a medical emergency.

Imaging is crucial for diagnosing kidney stones and guiding treatment. They can help locate stones anywhere in the urinary tract.

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are infections that occur in any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, or urethra. Most UTIs affect the lower urinary tract, which includes the bladder and urethra, but they can also spread to the kidneys, causing more serious health problems.

Symptoms can include:

• A strong, persistent urge to urinate
• A burning sensation when urinating
• Passing frequent, small amounts of urine
• Cloudy, dark, bloody, or strong-smelling urine
• Pelvic pain in women, particularly around the area of the bladder
• Fever, chills, nausea, or vomiting (if the infection has reached the kidneys)

A serious kidney infection that can cause back pain, fever, and chills, and may lead to permanent kidney damage if left untreated. While UTIs are often diagnosed based on symptoms and urine tests, imaging may be necessary in recurrent or complicated cases. 

Kidney tumors are abnormal growths that develop in the kidneys. They can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). 

The most common type of kidney cancer in adults is renal cell carcinoma. On the other hand, Wilms' tumor is more commonly seen in children. Early detection and accurate diagnosis are crucial for effective treatment for both types of tumors.

Symptoms of a kidney tumor may include:

• Blood in the urine
• Persistent pain in the side or back
• A lump or mass in the side or abdomen
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue
• Fever that is not related to an infection

Imaging is critical in the detection, diagnosis, and staging of kidney tumors. They provide detailed images of the kidney and surrounding tissues, helping to determine the size, location, and extent of the tumor.

Renal masses refer to abnormal growths in the kidneys, which can range from benign cysts to malignant tumors. Common types of renal masses include:

• Simple Cysts: These are typically benign and often discovered incidentally during imaging for other reasons. Simple cysts usually do not require treatment unless they cause symptoms.
• Complex Cysts or Solid Masses: These may require further evaluation to rule out malignancy. Complex cysts can have irregular shapes, thick walls, or solid components that may classify them as cancer.

In most cases, a renal mass does not cause symptoms until it reaches a significant size. However, some people may experience flank pain, blood in the urine, or palpable abdominal mass.

CT scans and MRI scans are essential for evaluating renal masses. These imaging tests help determine the size, location, and characteristics of the mass, aiding in diagnosis and treatment planning.

At Tellica Imaging, advanced CT scans and MRIs offer comprehensive evaluations of your renal and urinary conditions. Our radiologists and technicians specialize in abdominal, pelvic, and digestive imaging. 

We understand the complexities of renal and urinary conditions and are dedicated to providing insights that can guide your healthcare provider in developing the best possible treatment plan.

We prioritize your comfort throughout the imaging process. Our team of experienced technologists and board-certified radiologists ensure high-quality scans and accurate interpretations. Additionally, we offer flexible scheduling to accommodate your needs and work with most major insurance plans.

Renal and urinary conditions can significantly impact your health and quality of life. Imaging is essential for the accurate diagnosis and management of these conditions. Our state-of-the-art imaging tests offer detailed insights into the pelvic region, allowing for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

At Tellica Imaging, our staff is dedicated to creating a comfortable and welcoming environment for every patient. Additionally, our upfront and transparent pricing eliminates surprise bills, ensuring you can focus on your health. 

Visit us at any of our convenient locations and our friendly staff will be glad to answer any questions you may have. Alternatively, call us to schedule an imaging test at any of our locations.