Medullary sponge kidney -- what is it?

  I have had kidney stones for the past three years.  I have just been told that I have Medullary sponge kidneys.  What does this mean?  I would appreciate any information you could give me.
  Thank you.
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Dear Julie
Thanks for your question.
Tracey has a good description of medullary sponge kidney in the other reply.  I would still ask your urologist to perform a 24 hour urine collection to see if you have a deficiency of any stone inhibitors  in your urine which might can be replaced with medications and diet.  Your best defense against stone is hydration.  If you have no health contraindications to drink lots of water, you should continue to drink to keep your urine colorless not yellow.  This should be your best defense against stones.  
More individualized care is available at the Henry Ford Hospital and its urban campuses by calling  (1 800 653 6568). We can also arrange local accommodations through this number if this is your need. Please bring any physicians? notes and lab test results that you  may be able to obtain. These will help us greatly.
This information is provided for general medical education purposes only.  Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options pertaining to your specific medical condition.
Sincerely;
HFHS-M.D. MS
* Keyword: medullary sponge kidney disease