Health A-Z

A kidney biopsy is a medical procedure in which a small piece of kidney tissue is removed for examination under a microscope. It's typically performed to diagnose the cause of kidney disease or to monitor the progress of a known kidney condition. Here's an overview of symptoms, treatment plan, and diagnosis testing related to kidney biopsy.

1. Proteinuria: Excessive protein in the urine, which may indicate kidney damage.
2. Hematuria: Blood in the urine, which can be visible or detected under a microscope.
3. Decreased kidney function: Symptoms may include fatigue, swelling (edema) in the legs, ankles, feet, or face, and changes in urination patterns (increased frequency, foamy urine).
4. Hypertension: High blood pressure, which can be a sign of kidney disease.
5. Symptoms related to the underlying cause of kidney disease, such as joint pain, skin rash, or fever in autoimmune diseases like lupus nephritis

1. Pre-biopsy preparation: Before the biopsy, your healthcare provider will review your medical history, perform a physical examination, and order any necessary tests to assess your overall health and determine if you're a suitable candidate for the procedure.
2. Biopsy procedure: The kidney biopsy is typically performed under local anesthesia and guided by ultrasound or CT imaging to ensure accuracy and safety. After numbing the area, a needle is inserted into the kidney to collect a small tissue sample.
3. Post-biopsy care: After the procedure, you'll be monitored closely for several hours to watch for any complications such as bleeding or pain. Bed rest and limited activity may be recommended for a period of time to reduce the risk of bleeding.
4. Follow-up: Results of the kidney biopsy will be available in a few days to a week, depending on the laboratory processing time. Your healthcare provider will discuss the findings with you and develop a treatment plan based on the diagnosis.

1. Blood tests: Blood tests such as serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) help assess kidney function and detect abnormalities in kidney function.
2. Urine tests: Urinalysis and urine protein tests can detect abnormalities in the urine, such as proteinuria or hematuria.
3. Imaging tests: Imaging studies such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI may be performed to evaluate the structure and size of the kidneys and identify any abnormalities.
4. Kidney biopsy: A kidney biopsy is the definitive diagnostic test for many kidney diseases. During the procedure, a needle is inserted through the skin into the kidney to collect a small sample of kidney tissue, which is then examined under a microscope by a pathologist.