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Updated: Apr 25, 2026

Estimation of Urinary Nanocrystals in Humans using Calcium Fluorophore Labeling and Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis
Published on: February 9, 2021
[Crystalluria in ethylene glycol intoxication]
Richard Montagnac1, Maxime Thouvenin2, Grégoire Luxey1
1Service de néphrologie-hémodialyse, hôpital de Troyes, 101, avenue Anatole, 10003 Troyes cedex, France.
Calcium oxalate monohydrate crystals, also known as whewellite, can indicate ethylene glycol intoxication. Their presence may aid diagnosis when the cause is unclear.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Crystallography
- Uropathology
Background:
- Ethylene glycol intoxication is a serious condition that can lead to kidney failure.
- Diagnosis can be challenging, especially when the exposure history is unknown.
Observation:
- The study observed characteristic formations of calcium oxalate monohydrate crystals (whewellite).
- These crystal habits were found to be highly suggestive of ethylene glycol poisoning.
Findings:
- Specific morphological features of whewellite crystals serve as a potential diagnostic marker.
- The presence of these crystals can be a key indicator in diagnosing ethylene glycol intoxication.
Implications:
- This finding can improve the early and accurate diagnosis of ethylene glycol intoxication.
- It offers a valuable diagnostic clue in emergency settings or when definitive exposure history is lacking.
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