Flank pain has multiple etiologies including but not exclusive to the genitourinary system. Treatment begins with a thorough
history and physical examination. Before executing surgical treatment, the urologist would do best to evaluate a complete
patient history, associated findings, and laboratory and radiologic tests to determine the cause of flank pain. A structured
approach is recommended for diagnosis and treatment.
Key Words Flank pain - kidney stones - renal infarction - renal vein thrombosis - papillary necrosis - ureteropelvic junction obstruction - renal tumors - urinary tract