Hypercalciuria from acid load: renal mechanisms.

Excessive acid load is considered a risk factor for both Nephrolithiasis and osteoporosis. The mechanisms by which acid confer the risk involves multiple organs, and is highly complex and incompletely understood. At least one component of the acid effect is due to renal leak of calcium. This article summarizes the effect of acid on renal handling of calcium in the proximal tubule, thick ascending limb, and distal convoluted tubule.