Nephrology• Updated 21 October 2026
Kidney Biopsy
A procedure to take a small piece of kidney tissue to diagnose kidney disease.
Results: 1–2 weeks Specimen: Kidney tissue
Quick Summary
Primary Purpose
To find the cause of protein or blood in urine or unexplained kidney failure.
What It Measures
Kidney filters and tissue.
Preparation
Clotting tests; stop blood thinners as advised.
Overview
Done under ultrasound guidance with local anaesthetic.
You'll lie flat for several hours afterwards.
What It Measures
Glomeruli
Kidney filters.
Scarring
Long-term damage.
How It's Performed
- 01
Position
Lie on your front.
- 02
Needle
Through the back into the kidney.
- 03
Rest
Bed rest and monitoring.
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.
- Biopsy(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine
- Biopsy(opens in a new tab) · NHS