Pathophysiology and Treatment of Infection Stones

Infection stones are a well-known clinical entity that can cause significant long-term morbidity and even mortality if not treated appropriately. Infection stones are primarily composed of magnesium ammonium phosphate and calcium carbonate apatite. These stones form in alkaline urine containing ammonium. This environment is generated by infection with urease-producing organisms. Definitive treatment is aimed at removal of all stone. Percutaneous nephrolithotomy is typically the procedure of choice. Medical therapy can be used as an adjunct to surgery or as primary treatment in patients who are not surgical candidates. This review contains 8 highly rendered figures, 4 tables, and 72 references Key words: Infection stone; struvite; percutaneous nephrolithotomy; urease; dissolution therapy; magnesium ammonium phosphate; calcium carbonate apatite