A kidney biopsy removes a tiny sample of kidney tissue with a thin needle so that it can be examined under a microscope. It is considered when blood tests and scans cannot explain protein or blood in the urine, unexplained kidney failure, or a suspected immune disease. At a kidney hospital in Mumbai like Apex, a percutaneous needle biopsy is performed through the back, usually with imaging guidance and local anaesthesia. The patient is observed afterwards while lying still for several hours.

How the Procedure Can Help

A kidney biopsy shows the exact type and extent of kidney damage, which allows treatment to be matched to the disease. It helps decide whether steroids or immunosuppressive medicines are needed and gives a clearer idea of how the kidney is likely to behave in the future.

Risks and Considerations

The main risk is bleeding, which can cause blood in the urine or a collection around the kidney and, in rare cases may require a transfusion or further procedure. Pain, infection, and very rarely, injury to nearby structures can occur. Blood pressure must be controlled beforehand, and blood-thinning medicines may need to be paused as advised by the nephrologist.