Citrate inhibits growth of residual fragments in an in vitro model of calcium oxalate renal stones.

Background: Alkaline citrate is thought to be helpful in reducing recurrences of calcium oxalate stones. The evidence for this is incomplete, there have been few good trials, all with their own limitations, and not all reported any significant benefit. In vitro studies are usually cited to support the clinical studies but these too have their drawbacks, in particular they relate to crystals and microscopic aggregates and not to actual stone growth.