Kidney stone composition analysis
Is it worthwhile having kidney stone composition analyzed?
Whenever stone material is available, crystallographic analysis should be performed.
Although 70% of stones will be composed of calcium oxalate, it is the finding of noncalcium stones that provides the most benefit. Struvite and cystine stones are uncommon but cause serious stone diseases; their diagnosis via stone analysis leads to specific and intensive therapy.
Uric acid stones are always treated with alkalinization.
Crystallization of medications such as indinavir, guaifenesin, and triamterene in the urinary tract can lead to stones, which can only be diagnosed by the analysis of stone material.