Cystiinikiteitä

Cystiinikiteitä are microscopic crystalline structures composed of the amino acid cystine. They are primarily found in the urine and can be indicative of certain medical conditions. The formation of cystiinikiteitä is a result of cystinuria, a rare inherited disorder affecting the reabsorption of certain amino acids in the kidneys. In cystinuria, an excessive amount of cystine is excreted in the urine, leading to supersaturation and crystallization. These crystals are hexagonal in shape and can be identified under a microscope.

The presence of cystiinikiteitä in urine is a diagnostic marker for cystinuria. While cystine itself is not toxic, the accumulation of cystine crystals in the urinary tract can lead to the formation of kidney stones. These stones can cause significant pain, blood in the urine, and potential kidney damage if left untreated. Factors that can promote cystine stone formation include low urine volume, acidic urine pH, and increased urinary cystine excretion.

Diagnosis of cystinuria typically involves urinalysis to detect the presence of cystiinikiteitä and measurement of urinary cystine levels. Further genetic testing may be conducted to identify specific mutations responsible for the disorder. Treatment strategies focus on preventing stone formation and managing existing stones. This often involves increasing fluid intake to dilute urine, alkalinizing the urine to reduce cystine solubility, and sometimes medication to chelate cystine or reduce its production. Regular monitoring is crucial for individuals with cystinuria to manage the condition effectively and prevent complications.