Oxalate nephropathy

Definition:

Oxalate nephropathy is a rare condition that can lead to kidney damage and failure. It occurs when levels of a chemical called calcium oxalate become too high, causing crystals to form in the kidneys. These crystals can damage the kidney tissue.

There are two main types:

• Primary oxalate nephropathy. This is caused by a genetic condition that leads to your body overproducing oxalate.
• Secondary oxalate nephropathy. This is more common and can be caused by:
• Consuming high amounts of oxalate-rich foods or supplements (like vitamin C)
• Certain digestive conditions (like Crohn’s disease)
• Intestinal surgery (like gastric bypass)
• Chronic pancreatitis

Symptoms can include kidney stones, blood in your urine, painful urination, leg and ankle swelling, fatigue, loss of appetite, and vomiting and nausea. ^[1]