[The evaluation of patients with urinary calculi discloses disturbances of metabolism in 75% of all cases (author's transl)].

The causes of, and physiopathological factors underlying the most common metabolic disorders implicated in the formation of renal stones are reviewed. These include hypercalciuria, hyperoxaluria, renal tubular acidosis, cystinuria and disturbances of purine metabolism. Apart from metabolic disorders the risk of stone formation is also influenced by a low inhibitor activity in urine. Though some aspects in the pathogenesis of urolithiasis remain uncertain, the exact knowlege of important aetiological factors of stone formation is the basis of correct treatment and the prevention of recurrence of urinary calculi.