Resolution of medullary nephrocalcinosis in children with metabolic bone disorders

Ultrasonographic resolution of nephrocalcinosis (NC) has been reported in children with furosemide-induced NC, but not in other entities. We report the cases of four children with metabolic bone disease, two with hypophosphatasia and two with X-linked hypophosphatemic rickets, in whom we observed resolution of renal calcifications. At the time of ultrasonographic resolution of NC, 3 of the patients were on anticalciuric diuretics, and all 4 had normal urinalysis, serum creatinine and electrolyte profiles, as well as estimated creatinine clearance. In 3 of the children, evidence of mild tubular dysfunction was found. It thus seems that in some children with bone and mineral disorders who develop NC, ultrasonographic resolution of the renal calcifications can be seen; however, mild tubular dysfunction may remain and require follow-up. Further studies are suggested to explore the possible role of anticalciuric diuretics in promoting the resolution of NC.