Trace element content is associated with urolith type in goats and pigs diagnosed with urolithiasis

To determine the urolith trace elemental profile and the association of these elements with urolith type and animal variables.

This was a cross-sectional study of 165 goat and 50 pig uroliths collected from urinary bladders from January 1, 1982, through December 31, 2020. Urolith mineral composition was determined using polarized light microscopy and infrared spectroscopy. Trace element analysis was determined by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry. The association between animal variables and trace element content was assessed. The strength of grouping effects of the elements within the uroliths was determined by cluster analysis.

Calcium carbonate (74 of 116 [63%]) and apatite (22 of 47 [47%]) were the most commonly identified urolith types in goats and pigs, respectively. The element with the highest concentrations in calcium carbonate uroliths in goats was calcium. Apatite-containing uroliths from pigs had phosphorous as the highest concentration element. Large goat breeds (OR, 1.2; 95% CI, 1.1 to 1.4) and non-pot-bellied pigs had higher odds (OR, 1.6; 95% CI, 1.2 to 2.0) of detection of trace elements. The combination of barium, calcium, sodium, and strontium in goats defined the most significant dissimilarity (divergence) within the calcium carbonate uroliths. In pigs, boron, potassium, sodium, and strontium combination defined the most significant dissimilarity within the apatite uroliths.

Trace elements in combinations that defined significant dissimilarity among uroliths suggest an association between trace elements and urolith type.

Trace and macroelements should be analyzed in uroliths and feed to optimize dietary recommendations for urolithiasis prevention.