Hereditary kidney stones

Urolithiasis is a common multifactorial problem with multi-effect on the patients' quality of life and an economic burden on the individual and the health system of the country. Various intrinsic and extrinsic factors are associated with the risk for stone formation. Among intrinsic factors are race, sex, and genetics. Finding the cause of urolithiasis or establishing it early in life will reduce the consequence and complications of kidney stone disease and hence reduction of the cost in the treatment by establishing preventative measures in addition to patient education. Genetic factors play an important role in the etiology of urolithiasis as a polygenic (common) or monogenic (rare) forms, however its knowledge and early diagnosis is important to achieve the goals of reducing patient suffering and the economic burdens. This chapter entitled "Hereditary Kidney Stones" is devoted to understanding, early recognition, management and prevention of complications of hereditary urolithasis. This topic is important for urologists in practice to have an in depth knowledge about hereditary kidney stones and how to evaluate and manage them in addition to counseling the patients and their families.