Kidney stones have a high heritability. More than 40 genes have been identified causing monogenic forms of kidney stone disease (KSD). Kidney stone formers with genetic variants implicated in monogenic forms of KSD often suffer from early onset, high recurrence rates, and chronic kidney disease. Some patients may also exhibit extrarenal disease requiring attention.
Recent analysis of KSD patients identified a likely monogenic cause in pediatric populations in 17-30% of participants while in adult unselected populations 2.7-8% had a positive finding. More patients carry single genetic variants in monogenic forms that are classically considered as autosomal recessive but may cause an intermediate genetic risk for the development of KSD possibly in interaction with environmental or lifestyle factors. Genome-wide association studies have identified additional risk loci associating with KSD. Their clinical relevance are currently investigated. Patients with recurrent kidney stone episodes may be at elevated risk of progressive chronic kidney disease.
Monogenic causes of KSD are prevalent in patients less than 25 years of age and in some patients with high-risk metabolic profiles. These patients should undergo genetic testing to enable a precise molecular genetic diagnosis and personalized therapy as well as family counseling and screening.
Current opinion in urology. 2026 Jun 16 [Epub ahead of print]
Carsten A Wagner, John A Sayer, Michael Straub
Institute of Physiology and Zurich Kidney Center, University of Zurich, Switzerland., ESEUT European Association of Urology Endourology Section.