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A Kidney Biopsy a diagnostic procedure in which a small sample of kidney tissue is removed and examined under a microscope to identify the underlying cause of kidney problems. The primary purpose of a kidney biopsy is to provide detailed information about kidney structure, inflammation, scarring, or abnormal deposits that cannot be detected through blood tests, urine tests, or imaging alone. It is especially useful when patients present with unexplained kidney dysfunction, persistent proteinuria, hematuria, or suspected autoimmune or inflammatory kidney diseases.

During the procedure, a needle—guided by ultrasound or CT scan—is inserted through the skin into the kidney to obtain a tissue sample. Local anesthesia is typically used, making the process minimally painful. The collected tissue is analyzed by a pathologist to determine the type and severity of disease, such as glomerulonephritis, diabetic nephropathy, lupus nephritis, or acute kidney injury due to unknown causes.

Kidney biopsy results help clinicians tailor treatment plans more accurately. For example, identifying an immune-mediated condition may lead to the use of immunosuppressive therapy, while detecting extensive scarring may indicate the need for early intervention or changes in long-term management strategies. The procedure also helps predict disease progression and evaluate how well a patient is responding to therapy.

Although generally safe, potential risks include bleeding, pain, or infection. With proper monitoring, kidney biopsy remains a vital tool for achieving precise diagnosis and guiding optimal kidney care.