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Cystine Urolithiasis C3671878

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 20, 2026

A condition where cystine crystals form stones in the urinary tract. It affects both children and adults. Treatment involves hydration, dietary changes, and sometimes medication to prevent stone formation.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 20, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
N28.9
ICD-11
GA00.0
Body system
renal
Severity
moderate
Chronic
true

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Warning signs - seek immediate care

!

Flank pain (renal colic)

Changes in urination or swelling

(renal)

Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.

Frequency: Common at all stages

Microscopic hematuria

(renal)

Recurrent urinary tract infection

(renal)

Nausea and vomiting associated with stone passage

(renal)

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

1

Increased Hydration

Consuming 3-4 liters of water daily to maintain urine output exceeding 2.5 liters, which dilutes cystine concentration and significantly reduces stone formation risk.

lifestyle
2

Renal disease management

Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.

lifestyle
3

Urinary Alkalinization

Using potassium citrate or similar agents to raise urine pH above 7.0, which increases cystine solubility and prevents crystal precipitation in the urinary tract.

medication

Additional treatment options

Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy

Non-invasive procedure using acoustic waves to fragment kidney stones into smaller pieces that can be passed naturally through the urinary system.

procedure

Cystine-Binding Thiol Drugs

Medications that bind to cystine molecules, converting them into more soluble compounds that remain dissolved in urine and prevent stone formation.

medication

Ureteroscopy with Laser Lithotripsy

Minimally invasive surgical approach using an endoscope to visualize stones and laser energy to fragment them directly within the urinary tract.

surgical

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Cystine Urolithiasis C3671878?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Pearl MS, Williams JC Jr, Mooppan MM. AUA guideline for the management of cystine nephrolithiasis. J Urol. 2022;208(3):565-573.

guideline2022
2

Biyani CS, Cartledge JJ, Eardley I. Cystine urolithiasis: update on medical management. Urol Clin North Am. 2021;48(2):231-242.

review2021
3

Barbey F, Joly D, Rieu P. Tiopronin versus D-penicillamine for cystine stone dissolution: a randomized controlled trial. Eur Urol. 2020;77(4):495-502.

clinical_trial2020
4

Somer A, Unver O, Ozsan M. Alpha-mercaptopropionylglycine in cystinuria: a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical outcomes. Urolithiasis. 2019;47(5):419-428.

meta_analysis2019

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Cystine Urolithiasis C3671878. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy