Final answer:
Struvite renal stones form when urea-splitting bacteria present during urinary tract infections change the chemical composition of urine, promoting the aggregation of magnesium, ammonium, and phosphate into stones.
Step-by-step explanation:
Struvite renal stones are produced during urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by urea-splitting bacteria. These bacteria, most notably Proteus mirabilis among others such as Klebsiella, Serratia, and Providencia species, have the capability to convert urea into ammonia. This process decreases the acidity of urine, leading to a more alkaline environment which is conducive to the formation of struvite stones. These stones comprise of magnesium, ammonium, and phosphate compounds. The presence of these stones is always linked to UTIs, significantly impacting the patient's health as they can lead to blockage and pain in the urinary system.
It is also essential to distinguish the formation of these struvite stones from other types of kidney stones such as calcium phosphate stones, which are associated with different conditions like hyperparathyroidism and renal tubular acidosis. Monitoring and treating the underlying urinary infections is crucial in preventing the recurrence of struvite stones. Additionally, certain medications such as thiazides, potassium citrate, magnesium citrate, and allopurinol may be prescribed depending on the specific cause of the kidney stone formation to prevent future incidents.