[Kidney stone as a cardiovascular risk marker]

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Cardiology
• Epidemiology

Context:

• Kidney stones (nephrolithiasis) are frequently perceived as isolated, albeit painful, medical events.
• Emerging research indicates a significant correlation between the presence of kidney stones and elevated cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk.
• Understanding this association is crucial for comprehensive patient care.

Purpose:

• To review existing literature linking kidney stones to cardiovascular risk.
• To explore potential pathophysiological mechanisms underlying this association.
• To propose a paradigm shift in managing kidney stones.

Summary:

• This review synthesizes studies demonstrating a connection between kidney stone formation and increased cardiovascular risk.
• Pathophysiological hypotheses, including shared risk factors and inflammatory pathways, are discussed.
• The paper advocates for viewing kidney stones as an early indicator of potential cardiovascular complications.

Impact:

• Reclassifies kidney stones as a potential early warning sign for cardiovascular risk.
• Promotes proactive cardiovascular risk assessment in patients with a history of kidney stones.
• Suggests that early intervention strategies in stone formers could reduce future cardiovascular events.