title: Method and reliability of crystallographic stone analysis.
abstract: The methods of daily routine analysis of urinary stones in one laboratory, employing a combination of microscopy, spectroscopy, chemistry, and X-ray diffractometry, are described. A methodologic study indicates that these methods are complementary and no one method is sufficient. Quantitative estimates are in general best obtained by X-ray diffraction, whereas qualitative identification of depositional sequence and the quantitative determination of minor constituents must depend on microscopic and chemical methods. Components at a concentration of 1 per cent may be identified whereas those in excess of 5 per cent are rarely overlooked. Concentrations are correct within +/- 10 per cent of stone mass.
mesh_terms: D002129:Calcium Oxalate / Q000032:analysis; D002130:Calcium Phosphates / Q000032:analysis; D003461:Crystallography; D006801:Humans; D014545:Urinary Calculi / Q000175:diagnosis*; D014961:X-Ray Diffraction
chemical_list: D002130:Calcium Phosphates; D002129:Calcium Oxalate