Pathophysiology and Treatment of Hyperoxaluria

Humans cannot degrade oxalate. Thus, oxalate that is generated in the liver and/or absorbed from the intestine must be eliminated by the kidneys. Among genetic causes, primary hyperoxaluria (PH) type 1 is the most common and occurs due to deficiency of hepatic peroxisomal alanine glyoxalate aminotransferase. PH2 is caused by deficiency of lysosomal glyoxalate reductase or hydroxypyruvate reductase, whereas PH3 results from deficiency of mitochondrial 4-hydroxy-2-oxoglutarate aldolase. Enteric hyperoxaluria is caused by excessive colonic oxalate absorption due to any type of fat malabsorption. The diagnosis of hyperoxaluria is based on the history, 24-hour urine studies, and genetic testing. Early diagnosis and timely intervention are essential. To treat PH, adequate fluid intake, inhibitors of calcium oxalate crystallization (citrate or neutral phosphorus), and pyridoxine-in responsive patients are all important. Intensive dialysis and prompt kidney or combined kidney-liver transplantation are essential to minimize systemic oxalosis if renal failure occurs. Dietary modifications (low fat, low oxalate, and adequate calcium) are key for enteric hyperoxaluria. Calcium can be used as an oxalate binder. Newer modalities including oxalate degrading bacteria, oral oxalate decarboxylase preparations, and inhibitory ribonucleic acids are all under investigation. This review contains 9 figures, 6 tables, and 90 references. Key Words: bariatric surgery, calcium oxalate, dialysis, enteric hyperoxaluria, fat malabsorption, genetic testing, kidney stone, nephrolithiasis, oxalate, oxalate decarboxylase, Oxalobacter formigenes, primary hyperoxaluria, pyridoxine, transplantation, urolithiasis