Sequential Studies of Oxalate Dynamics in Primary Hyperoxaluria

1. We have measured the total plasma clearance, renal clearance and equilibrium distribution volume of [14C]oxalate, and the urinary oxalate excretion rate and plasma oxalate levels at approximately 6 month intervals for up to 2.5 years in five patients with primary hyperoxaluria. The renal clearance and distribution volumes of [99mTc]DTPA (diethylenetriaminepenta-acetate) were measured simultaneously to provide estimates of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and extracellular fluid volume (ECF). The same measurements were made on each of five normal volunteers. 2. Clearances and distribution volumes were measured with a modified single injection technique. 3. The oxalate clearance was two to three times the simultaneously measured GFR in the patients and control subjects. The renal clearance of oxalate was less than the total plasma clearance in the patients. The oxalate distribution volume was approximately 1.5 times the ECF in both the patients and controls. Only small changes were observed over a 2.5 years period in these particular patients. 4. The plasma oxalate concentration was derived from the urinary oxalate excretion rate and the plasma [14C]oxalate clearance. It was raised in the patients. The oxalate removal rate was derived from the total plasma clearance and the plasma oxalate concentration.