What condition is identified by the presence of kidney stones?

The condition identified by the presence of kidney stones is nephrolithiasis. This term specifically refers to the formation of solid aggregates, or stones, within the kidneys. These stones can develop from various substances, including calcium, oxalate, and uric acid, and can lead to significant pain and other complications, such as urinary obstruction and infection.

Nephrolithiasis is characterized by the actual formation and presence of these calculi within the renal system, making it distinct from the other terms listed. Nephropathy broadly refers to any disease of the kidney, without specifying the presence of stones. Nephritis indicates inflammation of the kidneys, often related to infections or autoimmune disorders, while hydronephrosis refers to the swelling of a kidney due to a build-up of urine, which can occur as a consequence of blocked urinary flow but does not involve the presence of stones specifically. Thus, nephrolithiasis accurately describes the condition associated with kidney stones.