Ramin Sam

Ramin Sam, MD is a Professor of Medicine at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Medicine, specializing in nephrology. He holds key roles as Medical Director of Dialysis at Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital and the Fresenius Ocean Ave dialysis unit. His clinical and research expertise focuses on sodium disorders, hemodialysis optimization, acid-base imbalances, and renal pathophysiology. Dr. Sam completed his college education at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, earned his medical degree from the University of Illinois Chicago, and trained in internal medicine and nephrology at Loyola University. He serves on the editorial board of the American Journal of Nephrology and is the main editor of Understanding Basic Renal Pathophysiology (Nova Publishers). His work emphasizes advancing dialysis techniques, electrolyte management, and addressing complications in kidney disease. Dr. Sam has authored/co-authored over 200 peer-reviewed publications since 1994, with recent contributions focusing on hyperglycemic emergencies, dialysis fluid dynamics, and vaccination strategies for dialysis patients.

Education:

• Bachelor's Degree: University of Illinois, Urbana
• Medical School: University of Illinois, Chicago
• Internal Medicine Residency: Loyola University Medical Center
• Nephrology Fellowship: Loyola University Medical Center

Research Interests: Dr. Sam’s research bridges clinical nephrology with translational science. His work addresses sodium homeostasis, hemodialysis innovations, acid-base disturbances, and cholesterol dynamics in kidney disease. Recent studies include optimizing dialysis fluid delivery systems and understanding hypernatremia in hyperglycemic crises.

Publications Trends: Over 30 years of publications reflect a focus on renal physiology, dialysis protocols, electrolyte disorders, and patient outcomes. Notable themes include bicarbonate regulation, phosphate management, and the clinical implications of renal amyloidosis.

Professional Roles:

• Vice Chair, Medical Advisory Board of the Forum of ESRD Networks
• Editor-in-Chief, American Journal of Nephrology
• Leadership in dialysis unit operations and clinical guidelines

Labs/Teams: Directs dialysis units integrating clinical research with patient care, emphasizing innovative treatments for electrolyte imbalances and renal dysfunction.