Kidney Biopsy

A kidney biopsy is a medical procedure in which a small sample of kidney tissue is removed for examination under a microscope. It is primarily used to diagnose kidney diseases, assess the severity of kidney damage, and evaluate the effectiveness of treatments.
Indications for a Kidney Biopsy:
- Unexplained Kidney Dysfunction: When blood or urine tests show abnormalities, but the cause is unclear.
- Glomerular Diseases: Conditions like glomerulonephritis, where the glomeruli (filtering units) are inflamed.
- Transplant Evaluation: To monitor for rejection or complications in kidney transplant patients.
- Kidney Tumors: To determine the nature of a mass or lesion in the kidney.
Procedure:
- Preparation: Patients may need to stop certain medications and undergo imaging tests.
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is typically used to numb the area.
- Tissue Collection: A needle is inserted through the skin into the kidney to obtain tissue, often guided by ultrasound.
- Post-Procedure Care: Patients are monitored for bleeding and other complications for a few hours after the procedure.
Risks:
While generally safe, potential risks include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Damage to surrounding organs
Results:
The biopsy sample is analyzed by a pathologist to identify any abnormalities, such as inflammation, fibrosis, or cancerous cells. The results help guide further management and treatment options.
In summary, kidney biopsy is a vital tool in nephrology that aids in diagnosing and managing various kidney-related conditions.