Pathogenesis of nephrolithiasis

Pathomechanisms of nephrolithiasis.

Lithiasis continues to be an important factor in chronic renal disease, since it leads to chronic tubulo-interstitial nephritis, which is estimated to be involved in 15- 30% of cases of end stage chronic renal insufficiency. It is believed that in order for a stone to be formed, a solid phase needs to be first produced from microcrystals (the nucleus), which are formed from salts (and other sub...

Cystine nephrolithiasis

Our understanding of the molecular basis of cystinuria has deepened as the result of the causative genes, SLC3A1 and SLC7A9, being identified. The proteins coded for by these genes form a heterodimer responsible for reabsorption of filtered cystine in the proximal tubule. Failure of this transport system to be targeted to the apical membrane, as in the case of SLC3A1 mutations, or failure of th...

Nephrolithiasis: introduction.

The genetics of nephrolithiasis.

Renal stone formation (nephrolithiasis) is a worldwide problem causing substantial morbidity and economic burden. The heritability of stone formation has long been recognized, and with the advent of the genomic era, we have the potential to define the underlying genetic defects. Renal stone formation is multifactorial, with environmental factors interacting with underlying genetic factors. Isol...

Prevention of recurrent calcium nephrolithiasis

Calcium-containing renal calculi are the most common stone type in reported series and recur in 26–53% of patients over a 10 year period. Because of this tendency, interventions aimed at reducing or preventing recurrence are an important strategy for reducing the morbidity associated with stone disease. This guideline uses an evidence-based review of the published literature with the purpose of...