CVA tenderness is a medical sign indicating pain or discomfort when the area over the kidneys is gently tapped. This symptom suggests potential underlying issues, particularly those affecting the urinary system. Recognizing CVA tenderness helps healthcare professionals identify conditions requiring further investigation and timely intervention.
Understanding CVA Tenderness
The “Costovertebral Angle” (CVA) refers to a specific anatomical landmark on the human back. It is the acute angle formed on either side of the spine by the twelfth rib and the vertebral column. The kidneys are located directly beneath this area, making it a relevant point for assessing kidney health.
Healthcare providers assess CVA tenderness through a physical examination using gentle percussion. They place one hand flat over the CVA region and tap it with the other fist. Sharp, localized pain indicates a positive finding; a normal response is a thudding sensation without discomfort. This pain arises because the inflamed or distended kidney capsule stimulates pain receptors in the area.
Conditions Indicated by CVA Tenderness
CVA tenderness points to conditions affecting the kidneys or surrounding structures. The most frequent cause is a kidney infection, pyelonephritis. This bacterial infection leads to inflammation and swelling of the kidney tissue, which stretches the renal capsule and triggers pain in the CVA region. Pyelonephritis can be a complication of a urinary tract infection (UTI) that has spread from the bladder to the kidneys.
Beyond kidney infections, other conditions can also cause CVA tenderness. Kidney stones can lead to this tenderness if they obstruct urine flow, causing pressure and inflammation within the kidney. While CVA tenderness can be present with kidney stones, it is not a standalone diagnostic indicator. Less common causes include kidney abscesses, collections of pus within the kidney, or hydronephrosis, swelling of the kidney due to urine buildup.
Importance of Professional Evaluation
Experiencing CVA tenderness warrants prompt medical attention, as it signals serious underlying conditions. Ignoring this symptom could delay diagnosis and treatment, leading to complications. A healthcare professional will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine the cause of the tenderness.
The assessment involves a physical examination and various diagnostic tests. These include urinalysis for white blood cells, bacteria, or nitrites, indicating infection, and a urine culture to identify the bacterial strain. Blood tests, like a complete blood count, can detect systemic infection or inflammation. Imaging studies, such as ultrasound or CT scans, may visualize the kidneys and identify structural abnormalities. Treatment depends on the diagnosis; antibiotics are prescribed for bacterial infections like pyelonephritis, while kidney stones may require pain management or surgical intervention.