The factors responsible for the pathogenesis of silica-containing uroliths are unknown,
but their formation is probably related to the dietary intake of silicates, silicic acid, or
magnesium silicate. Given that silica and silicate (salts of silicic acid) are extremely
common in soil, plants often contain relatively high amounts of silica (eg, 1%–4% dry
weight). Rice hulls, an extreme example, contain 16%–17% silica on a dry-weight.
Recommendations
to decrease recurrence after surgical removal include dietary
change, increasing urine volume, and urine alkalization. Dietary
change is prudent, especially in cases of recurrent silica urolithi-
asis. Diets relatively low in vegetable protein and other plant-
based nutrients are recommended. Lowering dietary protein
may reduce renal medullary urea concentrations and contribute
to the formation of less concentrated urine.
Answered2017-02-19 10:28:41
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