Struvite is the crystal name for stones that form only in the presence of urease-producing bacteria (eg, Proteus mirabilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Corynebacterium species, Ureaplasma urealyticum) in the upper urinary tract.
Other names for this crystal type include "triple phosphate" and magnesium ammonium phosphate carbonate apatite. Struvite is found in approximately 1 percent of stones and is much more common in females than in males (due to the higher risk of urinary tract infections in females).
Struvite stones:
Struvite (magnesium ammonium phosphate) stones are often referred to as "infection stones" since they are strongly associated with urinary tract infections (UTIs) with urea-splitting organisms. They may grow rapidly over a period of weeks to months and, if not adequately treated, can develop into a staghorn or branched calculus that fills the entire kidney collecting system. If left untreated, this can lead to deterioration of kidney function and end-stage kidney disease. In addition, since the stones often remain infected, there is a risk of developing sepsis. Thus, most patients require definitive surgical treatment.
Struvite
Every lab result you’ve ever had, charted and explained.
Healthmatters is a tracker for your lab results. Upload a report from any lab, any country — every marker charted and explained.
Start with my report →
All our content is backed by peer-reviewed studies, academic research, and trusted medical sources. We’re committed to accuracy and transparency — see our editorial policy for details.