Oxalate nephropathy: a review

This review describes the clinical and pathological features of oxalate nephropathy (ON), defined as a syndrome of decreased renal function associated with deposition of calcium oxalate crystals in kidney tubules. We review the different causes of hyperoxaluria, including primary hyperoxaluria, enteric hyperoxaluria and ingestion-related hyperoxaluria. Recent case series of biopsy-proven ON are reviewed in detail, as well as the implications of these series. The possibility of antibiotic use predisposing to ON is discussed. Therapies for hyperoxaluria and ON are reviewed with an emphasis on newer treatments available and in development. Promising research avenues to explore in this area are discussed.