Size-shape analysis of calcium oxalate crystals in the study of stone formation.

In renal stones very little is known about the relationships between size-shape parameters of the particles and packing arrangement. Factors such as the distance travelled by the deposited crystal, the residence time and fluid flow are believed to be important in modifying the distribution of size and the morphological characteristics of the mineral phase. This paper reviews some experimental studies on the growth of calcium oxalate crystals under different growth conditions. The crystals grown in aqueous media, gel systems, rat-kidneys, and in renal stones were studied by scanning electron microscope (SEM). Size distribution parameters, shape factors and distribution of shape were determined in stones using the SEM and image analysis system. Particle size and particle morphology analysis may provide unique information in the study of stone genesis, difficult to obtain by other methods.