A condition in which calcium deposits are found in the kidney.
Condition in which calcium deposits form in the kidney, often at the site of previous inflammation and leading to diminished kidney function, infection, and blood in the urine; it may be associated with excess calcium in the blood or kidney malfunction.
A kidney disorder that is characterized by deposits of calcium oxalate or calcium phosphate in the tubules of the kidneys and the areas between the tubules. Nephrocalcinosis may result in kidney stones and reduced kidney function. Nephrocalcinosis may be caused by an excess excretion of calcium by the kidneys, acidosis of the tubules of the kidneys, a rare congenital condition called sponge kidney, an elevated calcium level in the blood, necrosis of the kidneys, or tuberculosis.
The presence of calcium deposits in the kidneys. This can be caused by excess calcium in the blood, as caused by overactivity of the parathyroid glands, or it may result from an underlying abnormality of the kidney. The cause of nephrocalcinosis must be detected by full biochemical, radiological, and urological investigation so that appropriate treatment can be undertaken.
Accumulations of calcium within the tissue of either one or both kidneys characterize nephrocalcinosis. It’s important to differentiate nephrocalcinosis from kidney stones, as the latter involves the formation of calcium particles within the kidney’s drainage channels.
Nephrocalcinosis can develop within various conditions that elevate the calcium levels in the bloodstream. Instances include hyperparathyroidism (abnormal parathyroid gland function) and renal tubular acidosis (a condition where the kidneys produce urine with lower-than-normal acidity). Additionally, excessive consumption of specific antacid medications or vitamin D can also lead to nephrocalcinosis.
The treatment focuses on addressing the root cause to prevent further calcification.