Kidney stones more beautiful than expected

Extreme close-ups of thin slices of human kidney stones, revealing their intricate patterns of mineral layers. PHOTOS: NYTIMES
Extreme close-ups of thin slices of human kidney stones, revealing their intricate patterns of mineral layers. PHOTOS: NYTIMES
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Kidney stones, the painful urinary deposits that affect more than 10 per cent of people worldwide, are surprisingly dynamic, forming much like microscopic coral reefs, according to new research.

The findings, which could provide insights into how to better diagnose and treat the condition, were published in the journal Scientific Reports.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on September 27, 2018, with the headline Kidney stones more beautiful than expected. Subscribe