Renal geology (quantitative renal stone analysis) by 'Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy'.
OBJECTIVE
To prospectively determine the precise stone composition (quantitative analysis) by using infrared spectroscopy in patients with urinary stone disease presenting to our clinic. To determine an ideal method for stone analysis suitable for use in a clinical setting.


METHODS
After routine and a detailed metabolic workup of all patients of urolithiasis, stone samples of 50 patients of urolithiasis satisfying the entry criteria were subjected to the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic analysis after adequate sample homogenization at a single testing center.


RESULTS
Calcium oxalate monohydrate and dihydrate stone mixture was most commonly encountered in 35 (71%) followed by calcium phosphate, carbonate apatite, magnesium ammonium hexahydrate and xanthine stones.


CONCLUSIONS
Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy allows an accurate, reliable quantitative method of stone analysis. It also helps in maintaining a computerized large reference library. Knowledge of precise stone composition may allow the institution of appropriate prophylactic therapy despite the absence of any detectable metabolic abnormalities. This may prevent and or delay stone recurrence.
Singh
Iqbal
I
Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University College of Medical Sciences, University of Delhi & GTB Hospital, F-14 South Extension Part-2, New Delhi 110049, India. iqbalsinghp@yahoo.co.uk
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007669:Kidney Calculi / Q000737:chemistry*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011446:Prospective Studies; D017550:Spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared