Urate and the Kidney's

Question 1

What 2 mechanisms cause raised urate in the blood?

Answer 1

Increased turnover

Reduced excretion of urate

Question 2

How does urate cause kidney failure?

Answer 2

Urate is poorly soluble in water, so over-excretion can lead to crystal precipitation.

Renal failure occurs most commonly because urate precipitates in renal tubules

Question 3

What drug is given to prevent a sharp rise in urate following chemotherapy?

Answer 3

Allopurinol

Also remaining hydrated also helps

Question 4

Urate renal stones:

Proper hydration is main Rx.

Alkaline agents can be given orally. What are some examples?

Answer 4

Potassium citrate or potassium bicarbonate