|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Definition: | Cystinuria is a disorder characterized by stones in the kidney, ureter, and bladder. It is caused by excessive excretion of certain amino acids (protein building blocks) because of genetic abnormality. (See also nephrolithiasis).
|
| Alternative Names: | Stones - cystine; Cystine stones
|
| Causes, incidence, and risk factors: | Cystinuria is an inherited autosomal recessive disorder. The kidneys do not adequately resorb certain amino acids during the filtering process, thus resulting in excess excretion of these amino acids. The amino acids may precipitate and form crystals or stones in the kidneys, ureters, or bladder.
The disorder is usually diagnosed after an episode of stones, where analysis of the composition of the stones indicates cystine. Less than 3% of known urinary tract stones are cystine stones.
Cystinuria affects approximately 1 out of 10,000 people. Cystine stones are most common in young adults under age 40.
|
|
|
Review Date: 1/25/2002
Reviewed By: Debbie Cohen, M.D., Renal and Electrolyte Division, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
|
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2003 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
|
|
