Pelvic phleboliths are frequently seen on abdominal x-rays. Since these stones are small in size, almost like a dot of calcification, it is difficult to detect if it is in the urinary tract or in the vein.

Their tendency to be in and around the vesicoureteric junction (VUJ), which is a common site for a ureteric stone to lodge, adds to the difficulty in their diagnosis on plain radiographs.