What is the most common type of kidney stone?

The most common type of kidney stone is calcium stones, specifically calcium oxalate stones. These stones form when calcium combines with oxalate or phosphate in the urine. Factors contributing to the prevalence of these stones include dietary habits, such as high oxalate intake from certain foods (like spinach and nuts) and inadequate fluid intake, which can lead to concentrated urine.

Calcium stones are well-studied and understood within the medical community, and their formation is often associated with hypercalcemia or conditions that affect calcium metabolism. This type of stone accounts for a significant majority of all kidney stones, making it crucial for healthcare providers to focus on dietary modifications and hydration strategies when addressing stone prevention in patients.

In contrast, the other types of stones—such as uric acid, cystine, and struvite—are less common and have specific risk factors associated with their formation. Uric acid stones are linked to high levels of uric acid in the urine and may occur in individuals with gout or high protein diets. Cystine stones are associated with a genetic disorder that affects amino acid absorption. Struvite stones result from urinary tract infections and are usually less common than calcium stones. Therefore, understanding the prevalence of calcium stones aids