Dissolution of struvite stones with ascorbic acid

Abstract

This case report describes an elderly man with a history of recurrent urinary tract infections and obstructive pyelonephritis with struvite stones caused by Proteus mirabilis. Despite appropriate antibiotic treatment, the stones increased in size, necessitating alternative therapy. This case highlights the use of ascorbic acid to lower the urine pH, which contributes to the dissolution of struvite stones. Dual-energy CT was used to differentiate the stone composition for the initiation of ascorbic acid. These findings suggest that ascorbic acid can accelerate struvite stone dissolution, and that dual-energy CT is valuable for both initial diagnosis and follow-up.