Calcium Nephrolithiasis

Nephrolithiasis is a major cause of morbidity involving the urinary tract. The prevalence of this disease in the United States increased from 3.8% in the 1970s to 5.2% in the 1990s. There were nearly 2 million physician office visits for nephrolithiasis in 2000, and estimated annual costs totaled $2 billion. About 80% of stones are composed of calcium oxalate with variable amounts of calcium phosphate. New information has become available on the clinical presentation, epidemiologic risk factors, evaluative approach, and outcome of various therapeutic strategies. In this report, we will review the epidemiology and mechanisms of calcium kidney stones formation and outline management aimed at preventing recurrences. Improved awareness and education in both the general population and among health care providers about these modifiable risk factors has the potential to improve general health and decrease morbidity and mortality secondary to renal stone disease.