Depleted nitrite and enhanced oxidative stress in urolithiasis

Crystal aggregation and retention are critical events for the formation of kidney stones. There is a close association between crystal development and free radical activity in vivo. In the present study 30 subjects presenting with urolithiasis were included. Serum levels of total lipid peroxides, nitric oxide (as nitrite), α-tocopherol, plasma ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and erythrocyte superoxide dismutase activity were measured. These findings were compared with 30 age matched control subjects irrespective of sex. Student's 't' test was applied for statistical analysis. There was a significant increase in lipid peroxides (p