Effects of orthophosphate therapy on the crystallization of calcium salts in urine

C. Y C Pak, K. Holt, J. Zerwekh, D. E. Barilla

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

14 Scopus citations

Abstract

Effects of oral administration of orthophosphate therapy on the crystallization of calcium salts in urine were examined in 11 patients with calcium urolithiasis. Before and after 1-2 months of treatment with Neutra-Phos (500 mg phosphorus 3 times daily), urinary state of saturation and limit of metastability of calcium oxalate, and crystal growth of brushite and calcium oxalate were examined. The urinary saturation with respect to calcium oxalate usually declined during treatment, principally from a fall in urinary calcium. The limit of metastability of calcium oxalate increased in the majority of patients, a result indicating that orthophosphate administration inhibits spontaneous nucleation of calcium oxalate. This increase in the metastable limit may be the result of the stimulation of urinary excretion of pyrophosphate. The crystal growth of brushite was usually retarded during treatment. However, the limit of metastability of calcium oxalate did not change or decreased during treatment in some patients. Moreover, the crystal growth of calcium oxalate often increased. These results may explain the variable clinical response to orthophosphate in nephrolithiasis.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)147-154
Number of pages8
JournalMineral and Electrolyte Metabolism
Volume1
Issue number3
StatePublished - 1978

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism
  • Biochemistry

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