What is the most common type of kidney stone?

Calcium oxalate stones are indeed the most common type of kidney stones, accounting for approximately 70-80% of all cases. These stones form from the crystallization of calcium and oxalate in the urine, often influenced by dietary factors, dehydration, and certain metabolic conditions. Understanding the prevalence of calcium oxalate stones can shed light on the importance of hydration and dietary management in preventing recurrence.

Cystine stones, while significant in certain populations, are much less common and arise from a genetic disorder affecting amino acid metabolism. Struvite stones are often associated with urinary tract infections and are less prevalent in the general population. Uric acid stones, although they can be common in patients with conditions that lead to high uric acid levels, represent a smaller percentage of all kidney stones compared to calcium oxalate stones.

Thus, recognizing calcium oxalate stones as the predominant type emphasizes the need for awareness of risk factors associated with their formation, aiding in both prevention and effective management of kidney stone disease.