Calcium, Phosphorus, and Magnesium Disorders and Kidney Stones

Abstract

Disorders of calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium are common in patients with kidney disease. Hypocalcemia is related to decreased production of active vitamin D3, and hyperphosphatemia as well as hypermagnesemia are due to decreased excretion by the kidney. Hypercalcemia, hypophosphatemia, and hypomagnesemia are generally caused by medications during management of bone mineral disease. Several types of kidney stones occur and cause significant morbidity. The most common types of kidney stones are either calcium oxalate or calcium phosphate stones. Other stones include struvite, uric acid, and cystine stones. A combination of these stones is also seen frequently. An understanding of the pathogenesis and appropriate management can prevent morbidity associated with these stones.