David J. Sas, D.O., is a pediatric nephrologist who studies kidney stones in children. In particular, his research focuses on children with rare genetic kidney stone disorders, such as primary hyperoxaluria, Dent disease, cystinuria, CYP24A1 deficiency, and SLC34A1/C disorders.

Focus areas

Rare Kidney Stone Consortium (RKSC). This consortium facilitates the cooperative exchange of information and resources among investigators, clinicians, patients, and researchers to improve care and outcomes for people with rare kidney stone diseases. The consortium maintains active registries for people with primary hyperoxaluria, Dent disease, cystinuria, and CYP24A1 deficiency. Dr. Sas is also one of the leaders of an ongoing genetic testing protocol for people with suspected monogenic causes of kidney stone disease.

Significance to Patient Care

Kidney stones are painful, costly, and associated with increased risks of chronic kidney disease and hypertension. The incidence of kidney stones in children is rising, although the reasons for this increase are unclear. Dr. Sas is a leading investigator in the field and is identifying the underlying causes of kidney stones in children. Dr. Sas also led clinical trials for two game-changing treatments for primary hyperoxaluria that secured approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Dr. Sas’ goal is to continue to make discoveries related to the underlying causes of kidney stones in children to improve strategies for prevention and treatment.