Nephrocalcinosis
Definition:
A kidney disorder involving deposition of calcium and oxalate or phosphate in the renal tubules and interstitium (the areas between the tubules); this may result in reduced kidney function.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Nephrocalcinosis is caused by a number of conditions. These include: Fragments of calcium oxalate or calcium phosphate may break free from the kidney and provide nuclei for formation of stones (nephrolithiasis).
The disorder may eventually result in acute obstructive uropathy or chronic obstructive uropathy, leading to eventual kidney failure. The disorder is discovered when symptoms of renal insufficiency/renal failure, obstructive uropathy, or urinary tract stones develop.
Nephrocalcinosis is relatively common in premature infants, partly from intrinsic kidney calcium losses and partly from enhanced calcium excretion when they are given loop diuretics.
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