Risk factors for urinary stones in healthy schoolchildren with and without a family history of nephrolithiasis.

Background: The prevalence of lithiasis is increasing at all ages. This study aimed to assess the crystallization risk in urine from healthy school children and to determine urinary parameters that are most associated with it.

Methods: Urine samples were obtained from 184 children aged 5-12 years: a spot sample collected in the afternoon, and a 12-h overnight sample. Information was obtained regarding family histories of lithiasis. Urine volume, pH, and biochemical parameters of stone risk were measured. Crystallization risk was defined by the presence of specific urine conditions that had previously been associated with stone formation in vitro.

Results: Crystallization risk was observed in 15 % of spot urine samples and 54 % of 12-h samples. Metabolic abnormalities and a low urinary volume were more frequently detected in children with crystallization risk. Calcium excretion and calcium/citrate ratio were higher in children with a family history of lithiasis.

Conclusions: We observed a high prevalence of crystallization risk in urine, especially in children with a family history of the disease. Low urinary volume was the factor most associated with increased risk. Adequate fluid intake at an early age may be a simple and effective measure to reduce the incidence of nephrolithiasis.