What is "hypercalciuria"

n. (alternative form of hypercalcinuria English)

n. the presence of abnormally high levels of calcium in the urine; usually the result of excessive bone resorption in hyperparathyroidism or osteoporosis [syn: hypercalcinuria]

Hypercalciuria or hypercalcinuria is the condition of elevated calcium in the urine. Chronic hypercalcinuria may lead to impairment of renal function, nephrocalcinosis, and renal insufficiency. Patients with hypercalciuria have kidneys that put out higher levels of calcium than normal. Calcium may come from one of two paths: through the gut where higher than normal levels of calcium are absorbed by the body or from the bones. A bone density scan (DSX) may be performed to determine if calcium is obtained from the bones.

Hypercalciuria in patients can be due to genetic causes.

It is managed by increasing fluid intake, reducing sodium intake, and adding citrate. Citrate can be added by drinking orange juice or by taking a potassium citrate supplement. Reducing dietary intake of calcium may be beneficial but severe restriction has not proved beneficial and may even be harmful.