Renal Biopsy and Histology

 

Indications

Biopsy is commonly done when glomerular problems are likely, or when acute renal failure is unexplained.

 

Procedure

Local anesthetic is used.

 

 

 

  • Light Microscopy
  • Immunofluorescence
  • Electron Microscopy

Light Microscopy

Examine glomeruli, tubules, and interstitium.

 

Look for areas devoid of tubules, suggesting scarring

 

PAS Stain demonstrates cellularity.

Silver staining..

Immunoflorescence

IgA - can depict IgA nephropathy

 

IgG

Electron Microscopy

 

 

 

Potential Adverse Effects

Percutaneous biopsy is most commonly done and is relatively safe, though can lead to hematuria, hematoma, vascular lasceration and AV fistula formation, and biopsy of other tissues.