Metabolic evaluation of urinary lithiasis: what urologists should know and do

Urolithiasis is a complex medical entity and regroups several different types of stones, each caused by a multitude of dietary imbalances or metabolic anomalies. In order to better assess the stone-forming patient, urologists should be competent in performing a thorough metabolic work-up. We reviewed the litterature in order to provide an appropriate overview of the various components of the metabolic evaluation, including stone analysis, biochemistry tests, and urine collection. Performing a metabolic evaluation allows precise intervention in order to treat and mainly prevent stone disease.