Primary Hyperoxaluria is a rare condition characterised by the overproduction of a substance called Oxalate (Oxalic Acid) by the liver.

Type 1, type 2, and type 3 Primary Hyperoxaluria are rare genetic conditions. Each type of Primary Hyperoxaluria is caused by a deficiency in a certain liver enzyme which causes massive amounts of oxalate being produced.

Oxalate is a natural end product of metabolism and is not needed for any other bodily function. Approximately 90% of oxalate is excreted by your kidneys.

In the kidneys oxalate combines with calcium which causes calcium-oxalate crystals to form. These crystals can then grow into a kidney stone.

As well as kidney stones, the large amounts of oxalate can cause damage to the kidneys. It is therefore important that patients with hyperoxaluria are closely monitored by a kidney team.

Symptoms

Patients are usually unaware they have Primary Hyperoxaluria until they develop their first kidney stone. Renal Colic (severe pain in the back, side and groin area) is often the first sign.

However not all stones cause renal colic. Some stones are small enough to pass without causing any pain.

Information about the service

Patients with Primary Hyperoxaluria will be seen in the specialist renal metabolic clinic.  The renal metabolic clinic is one of few in the country with a long experience of managing metabolic conditions that affect the kidney. You will be seen in the clinic by a specialist kidney doctor or specialist kidney nurse.

How to contact the service

Emily Cooper – Renal Metabolic Clinical Nurse Specialist

Tel: 0121 371 8707
Email: Emily.Cooper@uhb.nhs.uk