Cystoliths

Cystoliths are mineralized concretions that occur in two distinct contexts. In plants, cystoliths are deposits of mineral material formed within specialized cells of the leaf or stem, typically comprising calcium carbonate or silica. They vary in size and shape and can appear as conspicuous nodules on the upper or lower leaf surfaces in certain species. The cells that host cystoliths are sometimes referred to as lithocysts. The exact function of plant cystoliths is not fully understood; they may contribute to structural support, play a role in defense, or influence cellular processes, and their presence can be a diagnostic feature for particular taxa.

In medicine and veterinary science, a cystolith is a urinary bladder stone, a concretion formed by crystallization of minerals in urine within the urinary bladder. They arise from supersaturated urine and can be associated with infection, urinary stasis, or foreign bodies. Symptoms may include discomfort, difficulty with urination, increased frequency, or blood in the urine, though some stones cause no noticeable symptoms. Diagnosis is typically based on imaging such as ultrasound or X-ray. Treatment varies with size and symptoms and can range from hydration and observation for small, asymptomatic stones to procedures like cystolitholapaxy, lithotripsy, or surgical removal for larger stones or those causing obstruction. Preventive measures focus on addressing underlying factors, including adequate hydration, dietary adjustments, and management of infections or anatomical issues.