CT scan is better for nephrolithiasis than plain X-ray.

CT scan is better for nephrolithiasis than plain X-ray.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not proven
• D. Inconclusive

Answer: (A)

Non-contrast CT has higher sensitivity and specificity for detecting nephrolithiasis than plain X-ray. It identifies nearly all stones, regardless of composition, size, or location, and can show signs of obstruction and other potential causes of pain. Plain radiographs only visualize a subset of stones—radiopaque ones—and can miss radiolucent stones like uric acid stones or small stones, leading to false negatives. Because of this broader detectability and localization, CT is the preferred initial imaging for suspected kidney stones.

Non-contrast CT has higher sensitivity and specificity for detecting nephrolithiasis than plain X-ray. It identifies nearly all stones, regardless of composition, size, or location, and can show signs of obstruction and other potential causes of pain. Plain radiographs only visualize a subset of stones—radiopaque ones—and can miss radiolucent stones like uric acid stones or small stones, leading to false negatives. Because of this broader detectability and localization, CT is the preferred initial imaging for suspected kidney stones.