Long-term observation of young cystinuric patients under ascorbic acid therapy.

Long-term results of ascorbic acid monotherapy in four young patients with cystine stone complaints are reported. The therapeutic program is based on the descriptions by Asper and Schmucki, who publicized the method for the first time in 1979. Clinical course observations, renal function checks as well as the excretion of cystine, uric acid and oxalic acid during ascorbic acid therapy of our patient pool will be discussed. Clinical observations made to date indicate that ascorbic acid therapy is a practical, inexpensive prophylaxis for cystine stone patients that is virtually free of side effects.