The role of calcium phosphate in the development of Randall's plaques.

Results of research carried out during recent years have shown that papillary subepithelial and intratubular deposits of calcium phosphate have important roles in the formation of calcium oxalate stones. In this article, the mechanisms of calcium oxalate stone formation are briefly reviewed and the background to formation of Randall's plaques type I and II discussed. Although some of the conclusions are difficult to prove, it stands to reason that improved understanding of how calcium phosphate is deposited in the interstitial tissue as well as in the collecting ducts will be of great importance for design of rational and individualized recurrence prevention.