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Updated: Apr 18, 2026
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A Semi-Automated and Reproducible Biological-Based Method to Quantify Calcium Deposition In Vitro
Published on: June 2, 2022
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Microscopic nephrocalcinosis in chronic kidney disease patients
Pieter Evenepoel1, Kristien Daenen1, Bert Bammens1
1Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Laboratory of Nephrology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven B-3000, Belgium.
Summary
Nephrocalcinosis, or kidney calcification, is increasingly common in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. Mineral metabolism disorders are implicated in its development, highlighting the need for further research in CKD progression.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Mineral Metabolism
- Renal Pathology
Background:
- Microscopic calcium phosphate deposition in the kidney (nephrocalcinosis) may accelerate chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression.
- Data on nephrocalcinosis prevalence, risk factors, and implications in CKD patients are limited.
- Mineral metabolism disorders are suspected contributors to nephrocalcinosis pathogenesis in CKD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of nephrocalcinosis in CKD patients across different stages.
- To identify risk factors associated with nephrocalcinosis in CKD.
- To investigate the relationship between nephrocalcinosis and CKD progression.
Main Methods:
- Kidney biopsy samples from CKD patients (n=211) and kidney donors (n=110) were analyzed for nephrocalcinosis.
- Demographics and mineral metabolism parameters (including parathyroid hormone - PTH) were collected.
- Renal death data were obtained from a national registry.
Main Results:
- Nephrocalcinosis prevalence increased with CKD stage, reaching over 50% in end-stage renal disease (ESRD).
- CKD patients with nephrocalcinosis had lower eGFR, lower serum bicarbonate, and higher PTH and calcium levels.
- High PTH, calcium, creatinine, and low bicarbonate were independently associated with nephrocalcinosis; phosphorus predicted renal death.
Conclusions:
- Nephrocalcinosis prevalence significantly rises with CKD stage, particularly in ESRD.
- Acid-base and mineral metabolism disturbances are likely involved in the pathogenesis of nephrocalcinosis.
- Further investigation into the role of mineral metabolism in CKD and nephrocalcinosis is warranted.
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