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Renal biopsy and pregnancy
J A Kuller1, N M D'Andrea, M J McMahon
1Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 27599-7516, USA.
American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
|May 12, 2001
Summary
Renal biopsy during pregnancy is risky, with complications like hematomas and transfusions. It should only be used for diagnoses other than severe preeclampsia, especially when not near term.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Obstetrics
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
Background:
- Renal biopsy is a diagnostic tool for kidney disease.
- Pregnancy can complicate the diagnosis and management of kidney disease.
- The safety and utility of renal biopsy in pregnant patients require careful evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the experience with renal biopsy in pregnant patients.
- To assess the indications, findings, complications, and outcomes of renal biopsy during pregnancy.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 18 renal biopsies performed during pregnancy or postpartum.
- Analysis of indications, histopathologic findings, complications, and neonatal outcomes.
Main Results:
- Most biopsies were performed antepartum (15/18).
- Preeclamptic glomeruloendotheliosis was confirmed in only 5 patients.
- Complications included renal hematomas (7/18) and blood transfusions (2/18); 4 intrauterine fetal deaths occurred, presumed unrelated to biopsy.
Conclusions:
- Renal biopsy in pregnancy is associated with significant morbidity.
- Consider renal biopsy in pregnancy only when it can establish a diagnosis other than severe preeclampsia, particularly in patients remote from term.