Points to remember: Kidney Biopsy

A biopsy is a diagnostic test that involves collecting small pieces of tissue, usually through a needle, for examination with a microscope.

• A kidney biopsy can help in forming a diagnosis and in choosing the best course of treatment.
• Before the kidney biopsy, patients should

• talk with their doctors to make sure they understand the need for a biopsy
• sign a consent form
• tell their doctors about any allergies they have and medicines they take
• follow their doctors’ orders for food restrictions

• After the kidney biopsy, patients should
  
  • lie on their backs—or stomachs if they have a transplanted kid-ney—for a few hours
  • report any problems, such as
    • bloody urine more than 24 hours after the test
    • inability to urinate
    • fever
    • worsening pain
    • faintness or dizziness