GROWTH STUDIES OF CALCIUM OXALATE IN THE PRESENCE OF VARIOUS COMPOUNDS AND IONS1—Part II

Abstract

SUMMARY Crystallisation of calcium oxalate (a major constituent and often the nucleus of urinary calculi) can be prevented or slowed down by introducing into the crystallising medium either a compound or ion which forms a soluble stable complex with the calcium or oxalate ion, or a substance which is absorbed on to some crystal faces, thus causing a retardation in crystal growth. Many substances have been shown to be effective in bringing about this change. Tests carried out in urine indicate that inhibitors of crystal growth function just as effectively in this medium as in a buffer solution and they may therefore be of use in the prevention of urinary calculi.