JODHPUR, April 3 -- Kidney stones, once considered a condition affecting mostly adults, are now being increasingly diagnosed in children, according to a recent study conducted at All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Jodhpur and published in the journal Urolithiasis. The study, based on children from north-western India, found that a large proportion of pediatric kidney stone cases are linked to metabolic and genetic factors rather than just dietary habits. Researchers evaluated 74 children and found that more than 80% had an identifiable underlying cause, enabling more targeted treatment and prevention strategies. "Kidney stones in children are increasingly being recognised, but the reassuring part is that most cases can be evaluated and managed effectively. In selected children, identifying metabolic or genetic causes can help prevent recurrence," said Dr Aliza Mittal, Additional Professor, Pediatric Nephrology, AIIMS Jodhpur. The study highlighted that abdominal pain was the most common symptom, while abnormalities such as high calcium or uric acid levels in urine were frequently seen. Importantly, the research also incorporated genetic testing in selected cases, revealing that a significant number of children may have an inherited predisposition to stone formation. Experts say this is particularly relevant for children with early-onset disease, recurrent stones, or a family history. Doctors also pointed out that children living in hot and arid regions may be at increased risk due to dehydration but emphasised that lifestyle is only one part of the story. Based on the findings of this study, more research on pediatric renal stones is underway at the Pediatrics Department of AIIMS Jodhpur....