Final answer:
Decreased urinary citrate can increase the formation of calcium stones in the kidneys because citrate helps to bind calcium in the urine, preventing stone formation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Decreased urinary citrate can lead to the formation of calcium stones in the kidneys. Citrate is an important molecule that binds calcium in the urine, preventing the formation of stones. A lower level of citrate in the urine can lead to an increase in the amount of free calcium, which can then bind with oxalate or phosphate to form calcium oxalate or calcium phosphate stones. Therefore, maintaining an adequate level of urinary citrate is important for preventing kidney stones. This can sometimes be achieved through medical interventions like taking potassium citrate or magnesium citrate, which can help increase the levels of urinary citrate and reduce the risk of stone formation.