Does uric acid cause kidney stones?

Uric acid can indeed contribute to the formation of kidney stones, also known as calculi. Here's how:

1. Supersaturation: Uric acid is a waste product that is produced when the body breaks down purines, which are compounds found in certain foods and tissues. When the concentration of uric acid in the urine becomes too high, it can reach a state of supersaturation, where there is more uric acid than the urine can dissolve.

2. Crystallization: In the supersaturated state, uric acid crystals can start to form. These tiny crystals can aggregate and grow, eventually forming larger, solid structures known as kidney stones.

3. Stone Formation: The uric acid crystals can act as nucleation sites for other minerals to accumulate, such as calcium, oxalate, and phosphate. As more and more minerals attach to the uric acid crystals, the kidney stones grow in size and become harder.

4. Risk Factors: Certain factors can increase the risk of uric acid kidney stone formation, such as:

- High-purine diet: Consuming foods rich in purines, like red meat, organ meats, certain seafood, and some beverages, can increase uric acid production.

- Dehydration: Insufficient fluid intake can lead to concentrated urine and higher uric acid levels, increasing the risk of crystallization and stone formation.

- Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as gout, kidney disease, or certain genetic disorders, can disrupt uric acid metabolism and increase the risk of kidney stones.

It's important to note that not all kidney stones are caused by uric acid. There are other types of kidney stones, such as calcium oxalate stones and struvite stones, which have different causes and risk factors.

If you have concerns about kidney stone formation, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for proper assessment, diagnosis, and management.