Struvite crystals (magnesium ammonium phosphate, triple phosphate) usually appear as colorless, three-dimensional, prism-like crystals ("coffin lids"). Occasionally, they instead resemble (vaguely) an old-fashioned double-edged razor blade (lower frame).
Other names for this crystal type include "triple phosphate" (because the phosphate is in the triple-negative form) and magnesium ammonium phosphate carbonate apatite. Struvite is found in approximately 1 percent of analyzed stones and is much more common in females than in males (due to the higher risk of urinary tract …
Triple phosphate, or struvite, crystals are described as having a "coffin-lid"-shaped appearance. Several struvite crystals are shown above. Struvite crystals are composed of magnesium ammonium phosphate. They are typically seen in alkaline urine, with a urine pH > 7.0.
Struvite and triple phosphate renal calculi are specific types of kidney stones that form in the presence of urinary tract infections caused by urease-producing bacteria. Prompt diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and preventive measures are essential in managing these stones.
Crystals from monohydrated calcium oxalate, uric acid, and triple phosphate are birefringent under polarized microscopy. Urinary crystals can be useful in the diagnosis of urolithiasis.
Struvite and triple phosphate renal calculi are formed as a result of urinary tract infection by urease-forming organisms. They grow rapidly and occupy the entire collecting system causing obstruction, chronic pyelonephritis, and renal failure.
struvite stones (triple phosphate, or magnesium ammonium phosphate) cystine stones. Calcium stones are the most common type, and they can be further divided into two subgroups based on the...
2.1.3. Triple phosphate (ammonium magnesium phosphate, struvite) Triple phosphate crystals can be appeared in neutral and alkaline urine and are associated with upper urinary tract infections with urease‐producing organisms. Urease breaks down urea into ammonia and carbon dioxide.
Triple superphosphate (TSP) was one of the first high-analysis phosphorus (P) fertilizers that became widely used in the 20th century. Technically, it is known as calcium dihydrogen phosphate and as monocalcium phosphate, [Ca (H₂PO₄)₂ .H₂O].
Struvite (triple phosphate) stones are the staghorn calculi associated with urinary tract infection and precipitate in alkaline urine. Treatment is with antibiotics and stone clearance.