Dr. Pawan Pathak

Kidney Biopsy

A kidney biopsy is a medical procedure in which a small sample of kidney tissue is taken using a special needle for laboratory examination. It helps doctors understand the cause of kidney problems, evaluate the severity of damage, and plan the right treatment.

Treatments

A kidney biopsy itself is not a treatment but a diagnostic tool. Based on the biopsy results, treatment may include:

Medications for inflammation, infection, or autoimmune conditions.
Adjustments in dialysis plans for patients with advanced kidney disease.
Lifestyle and diet modifications to reduce kidney strain.
Surgery or further interventions if structural problems are detected.

Symptoms and Causes

Symptoms:

Blood in urine (hematuria)
Protein in urine (proteinuria)
Unexplained kidney failure or worsening kidney function

Causes (for recommendation):

Unclear cause of chronic or acute kidney disease
Suspected nephrotic or nephritic syndrome
Polycystic kidney disease
Monitoring transplanted kidneys for rejection or infection

Prevention

While kidney biopsy cannot be “prevented,” patients can reduce the chances of needing one by:

Maintaining a healthy blood pressure and blood sugar level.
Following a kidney-friendly diet and staying hydrated.
Avoiding unnecessary overuse of painkillers and harmful medications.
Regular health checkups for early detection of kidney disease.