Treatment of patients with uric acid stones

Urolithiasis. 2016 Feb;44(1):57-63. doi: 10.1007/s00240-015-0843-8. Epub 2015 Dec 8.

Abstract

Uric acid nephrolithiasis and unduly acidic urinary pH are both considered a renal manifestation of insulin resistance but the underlying mechanisms for the development of low urinary pH and the propensity for uric acid stone formation are not completely elucidated. Nevertheless, excessive dietary acid intake, increased endogenous acid production and/or defective NH4+ excretion play an important role, among other factors. The main principles of therapy for uric acid nephrolithiasis are aimed at urinary alkalinization through diet modification or pharmacologic agents, increase of urinary volume, and less importantly at the reduction of uric acid excretion.

Keywords: Acidic pH; Nephrolithiasis; Stones; Urate; Uric acid.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Allopurinol / therapeutic use
  • Bicarbonates / administration & dosage
  • Diet
  • Humans
  • Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
  • Kidney Calculi / therapy*
  • Uric Acid / metabolism*

Substances

  • Bicarbonates
  • Uric Acid
  • Allopurinol