Kidney Biopsy

Overview

A kidney biopsy is a medical procedure that involves obtaining a small sample of kidney tissue for examination under a microscope. This procedure is typically performed by a nephrologist or an interventional radiologist and is used to diagnose and monitor diseases of the kidney.

A medical professional performing a kidney biopsy procedure.

Indications

Kidney biopsy is indicated in a variety of clinical scenarios. These include unexplained acute kidney injury, persistent proteinuria, hematuria, and chronic kidney disease of unknown origin. It is also used to monitor the progression of certain kidney diseases and the response to treatment.

Procedure

The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia. The patient is positioned on their stomach or side, and the skin over the kidney is cleaned and numbed. Using ultrasound or CT guidance, a biopsy needle is inserted through the skin and into the kidney to obtain the tissue sample. The sample is then sent to a pathology lab for analysis.

Risks and Complications

While kidney biopsy is generally safe, it is not without risks. These include bleeding, infection, injury to surrounding organs, and rarely, kidney failure. Patients are closely monitored after the procedure for signs of complications.

Pathological Examination

The kidney tissue obtained during biopsy is examined under a microscope by a pathologist. They look for abnormal cells, inflammation, scarring, and other signs of disease. The findings can help determine the cause of kidney disease and guide treatment decisions.

Follow-Up

After a kidney biopsy, patients are usually observed for several hours to monitor for complications. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to discuss the results and plan for treatment, if necessary.