Kidney biopsy

Renal biopsy; Biopsy - kidney

A kidney biopsy is the removal of a small piece of kidney tissue for examination.

Kidney anatomy

The kidneys are responsible for removing wastes from the body, regulating electrolyte balance and blood pressure, and the stimulation of red blood cell production.

Kidney - blood and urine flow

This is the typical appearance of the blood vessels (vasculature) and urine flow pattern in the kidney. The blood vessels are shown in red and the urine flow pattern in yellow.

Renal biopsy

In renal biopsy, a small sample of kidney tissue is removed with a needle. The test is sometimes used to evaluate a transplanted kidney. It is also used to evaluate an unexplained decrease in kidney function, persistent blood in the urine, or protein in the urine.

How the Test is Performed

How to Prepare for the Test

How the Test will Feel

Why the Test is Performed

Normal Results

What Abnormal Results Mean

Risks