[The relationship between bacteria and kidney stones of different compositions in patients with urolithiasis]

Urolithiasis is one of the most prevalent urological disorders and remains among the leading urinary tract diseases worldwide. The risk of developing urolithiasis is influenced by a wide range of factors, and its global prevalence continues to rise, particularly in both developed and developing countries. A deeper understanding of its etiology, including the contribution of bacteria, is of paramount importance, as microorganisms may contribute to recurrent stone formation. This review summarizes current evidence supporting bacterial involvement in urolithiasis. Particular attention is given to the potential role of microorganisms in the pathogenesis of so-called non-infectious stones, as well as to the complex interplay between stone formation and urinary tract infection. The aim of this article is to integrate available data on the association between bacteria and urinary stones, with a focus on the pathophysiology of stone formation and the urinary microbiome in calculi of different chemical compositions.