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Updated: Jun 4, 2026
09:31
In Vivo, Percutaneous, Needle Based, Optical Coherence Tomography of Renal Masses
Published on: March 30, 2015
[Renal mass biopsy: usefulness and indications]
José Saldarriaga1, Julien Schwartz, Thomas De Perot
1Service d'urologie, Département de chirurgie, HUG, Faculté de médecine, Université de Genève. jose.saldarriage@hcuge.ch
Revue Medicale Suisse
|February 5, 2011
Summary
Renal biopsy, once rarely used for kidney tumors, is now recommended for select cases. Improved techniques and minimal risks make it valuable for diagnosing and managing various renal lesions.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Nephrology
- Oncology
Context:
- Renal biopsy is standard in nephrology but historically underutilized in urology for kidney tumors due to low yield.
- Recent advancements in biopsy techniques have improved tissue sampling and reduced risks.
- The risk of tumoral seeding from needle tracts is negligible.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the evolving role and utility of renal biopsy in the diagnosis and management of kidney tumors.
- To identify specific renal lesions where biopsy can enhance diagnostic accuracy and treatment planning.
Summary:
- Renal biopsy is increasingly recommended for select renal lesions, including atypical solid masses (≤3 cm), tumors in solitary kidneys, bilateral renal tumors, suspected metastases, and lesions in compromised renal function.
- Improved biopsy techniques ensure better tissue acquisition.
- The procedure carries a negligible risk of tumor seeding.
Impact:
- Enhances diagnostic accuracy for challenging renal lesions, guiding appropriate management strategies.
- Facilitates personalized treatment decisions for kidney tumor patients.
- Expands the utility of renal biopsy beyond traditional nephrology applications into urological oncology.
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