Developmental aspects of calcium oxalate tubular deposits and calculi induced in rat kidneys.

We employed an experimental hyperoxaluric protocol involving the administration of 1 per cent ethylene glycol drinking water to rats to determine (i) the location and mechanism of retention of renal tubular calcium oxalate crystals, and (ii) how this tubular deposition is modified by magnesium deficiency and contributes to stone formation. Calcium oxalate monohydrate deposition was found predominantly within the lumina of proximal tubules, and was markedly accelerated by magnesium deficiency. Sheet- and strandlike mucoid appearing material attached the crystals to the luminal surface of the renal tubules. The structure of stones found in the renal pelvis suggested that tubular deposits aggregate to form the nidus of the calculus.