Question Title: High ph

I have had several urinalyses done since my calcium phosphate stone, and the only abnormality has been a ph consistently between 7 and 8. Besides RTA, (which hasn't been ruled out yet) what other disorders might cause this? All of my bloodwork appears normal, and pth was 53. Any input you have would be helpful. Thanks!

Kristin

Dear Kristin,
The usual urinary pH tends to vary between 5.0 to 8.0. It tends to be more acidic in the early morning and more alkaline after a meal. Patients with type 1 RTA(renal tubular acidocis) are unable to acidify their urine below 5.5. Thia particular defect might be your problem and needs to be verified.. In addition to the primary disease there are other causes for type1 RTA such as: primary hyperparathyroidism, hyperthyroidism,genetically determined, sickle-cell anemia, Marfan’s syndrome, autoimmune disorders, medullary sponge kidney, and chronic hepatitis to name a few. Furthermore, calcium phosphate preferentially precipitates in an alkaline pH to form a stone, consistent with your history.
Alkaline urine pH above 8.0 is often associated with infection by specific organisms such as Proteus.
A vegetarian diet can be associated with a alkaline urine as well.

As far as your PTH(parathyroid hormone) level is concerned, it is within normal range (12 to 72 pcg/ml). Hyperparathyroidism is one of the causes for type 1 RTA as mentioned earlier.

You need to see a nephrologist for a more detailed work up.

This information is provided for general medical education purposes only. Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options pertaining to your specific medical condition. More individualized care is available at the Henry Ford Hospital and its urban campuses by calling (1 800 653 6568).

Sincerely;
HFHS-M.D. BE
* Keyword:alkaline urine