Urate stones are formed from uric acid salts and can be dissolved with certain medications. By contrast, phosphate and oxalate stones do not dissolve in the same way. This distinction was explained by a specialist heading the urology department at a prominent Russian medical center. The expert, a highly experienced urologist, clarified these points in an interview.
There are many ways to classify kidney stones. Based on chemical composition, stones fall into three main groups: oxalate stones from calcium salts and oxalic acid, urate stones from uric acid salts, and phosphate stones from phosphoric acid salts. In many cases, stones are mixed, meaning a single stone contains more than one type of salt.
To determine the exact composition, doctors analyze the stone that has passed naturally or was removed during a procedure. This biochemical analysis helps guide the treatment plan.
Treatment decisions for kidney stone disease depend on the stone type. In the described clinical approach, drug therapy is used specifically to dissolve urate stones. These stones respond to certain medications that can break them down. Oxalate and phosphate stones are typically not soluble through medication alone and are usually treated with physical methods to break or remove them. These methods include lithotripsy using ultrasound to crush the stones or percutaneous nephrolithotomy, a procedure that removes stones through a small incision with specialized instruments.
Further information about kidney stone disease and the available treatment options can be found in the socialbites.ca material. (source attribution)
Past medical guidance has noted that high salt intake can impact kidney health and may influence stone formation.