Structural features of three ureterocele calculi
F Grases1, O Söhnel, A Costa-Bauzá
1Laboratory of Renal Lithiasis Research, Universitary Institute for Health Sciences Research, Ed. Mateu Orfila Rotger, University of Balearic Islands, Ctra. Valldemossa km. 7.5, 07122, Palma de Mallorca, Spain. fgrases@uib.es
International Urology and Nephrology
|March 3, 2007
Summary
Ureterocele calculi, or stones, form in urinary retention areas. Their structure varies, with some linked to hypercalciuria, highlighting the need for particle retention for stone initiation.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Biochemistry
- Materials Science
Background:
- Ureterocele calculi form in urinary retention sites, distinct from upper urinary tract stones.
- Understanding the structural composition and formation mechanisms of these calculi is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the structural characteristics of ureterocele calcium oxalate calculi.
- To correlate stone composition with urinary parameters of affected patients.
Main Methods:
- Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) coupled with X-ray microanalysis was used to examine stone structure.
- Urinary biochemical parameters of three patients with ureterocele calculi were determined.
Main Results:
- Stone A: Loose structure, calcium oxalate dihydrate, hydroxyapatite spheres, and calcium oxalate monohydrate plates.
- Stone B: Compact outer layer of calcium oxalate monohydrate columnar crystals; interior similar to Stone A.
- Stone C: Concentric layers of calcium oxalate monohydrate and hydroxyapatite; core with agglomerated crystals, hydroxyapatite, and organic matter.
- Two patients (Stones A & B) were hypercalciuric (>300 mg/24h calcium). Urinary pH values were 6.5 (Stone A) and 7.0 (Stone C).
Conclusions:
- Ureterocele calculi exhibit diverse structural compositions, including calcium oxalate and hydroxyapatite.
- Hypercalciuria is associated with the formation of certain ureterocele calculi.
- Urinary retention sites are essential for the initiation and development of unattached calculi.
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