The role of trace metals in calcium urolithiasis

Ten urinary stones composed of calcium oxalate or a mixture of calcium oxalate and calcium phosphate were analyzed for trace metal content by emission spectroscopy. Trace metals found in amounts of 0.001 per cent or more were iron, copper, zinic, tin, lead, and aluminum. The inhibitory effect of each of these trace metals on the crystal growth of calcium oxalate and calcium phosphate was tested. Results indicated that none of the metal affect the crystal growth of calcium oxalate at concentrations approximating those found in normal urine. The metal ions copper (II), zinc (II), tin (II), and aluminum (III) did affect the crystal growth of calcium phosphate when present at physiologic concentrations; however, their contribution to the total calcium phosphate inhibitor activity in urine was estimated to be insufficient to have a regulatory role in urinary stone growth.