Red Sox CF Mike Cameron Diagnosed with Possible Kidney Stone(s)

Mike Nicotera, the agent for Red Sox center fielder Mike Cameron, writes that his client has returned to Boston to meet with team doctors sometime this morning after an initial diagnosis that he may be suffering from a kidney stone(s).

Nicotera wrote: “I spoke to Cam last night. Seems to be a kidney stone that he needs to pass. He’s going to follow up with doctors in Boston today.”

Cameron was scratched from the starting lineup before yesterday’s game after complaining of lower abdominal pain. Initially, it was suspected he had suffered a strained abdominal muscle. Later, it was conjectured he might have appendicitis. He was examined by a Twins team doctor, who determined he should remain behind to be examined. He checked into a Minneapolis hospital last night for tests.

Jeremy Hermida is the likely beneficiary in terms of playing time. If Cameron needs to be placed on the DL during his treatment/recovery, the most likely call-up would normally have been Josh Reddick, but the 23-year-old has struggled during the first week (he’s hitting just .138), which could open the door for PawSox teammate Darnell McDonald.

Most small stones (< 5cm) pass out of the body without the need for any treatment other than taking pain medicine and drinking enough fluids. Approximately one-half of stones between five cm and 10 cm will pass without requiring anything more than fluids and pain meds. Only one or two out of every 10 kidney stones need more than home treatment. The average time a stone takes to pass ranges between one and three weeks.

Depending upon the location or size of the stone, more extreme measures may be needed to dissolve or extract the stone, including the use of shock waves (ESWL), tubes, miniature telescopes, or open surgery.

To read more about the treatment for kidney stones, go to WebMD .