Association and risk of metabolic syndrome and kidney stone disease: outcomes from a systematic review and meta-analysis

Purpose of review Metabolic syndrome (MetS) has emerged as a potential contributor to the development of kidney stone disease (KSD). This study aims to conduct a systematic review of the literature, and meta-analysis of the association between MetS and KSD. Recent findings Systematic review revealed Fifteen articles (433 201 patients) were eligible for analysis. Meta-analysis of 11 studies identified a statistically significant association between MetS and KSD with unadjusted odds ratio of 2.02 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.96–2.08, P < 0.001], and pooled adjusted odds ratio of 1.22 [95% CI 1.09–1.37, P < 0.001]. Of the different MetS traits, hypertension and impaired glucose tolerance were the most significantly associated with KSD. Summary This study confirms a significant association between MetS and KSD. Despite variations in MetS definitions across different studies analysed, consistent associations were observed across studies. This may have clinical implications in that guidelines do not currently recommend routine MetS screening in KSD patients.