Kidney Biopsy in the Critically Ill

A kidney biopsy is a procedure in which a small sample of kidney tissue is collected for examination under a microscope. In critically ill patients, this can help doctors diagnose kidney problems, such as acute kidney injury or glomerulonephritis. The procedure is usually done using a thin needle guided by ultrasound and may require mild sedation. Analyzing the tissue can provide important information about the underlying cause of kidney issues, allowing for more targeted treatment. While there are risks involved, the potential benefits in diagnosis and management are often considered justified in critical care settings.